Jubilee Year Concludes
It’s hard to believe, but our Golden Jubilee Year will draw to its close this coming Tuesday, May 22nd, as our parish turns 51 years old. To liturgically mark the conclusion of this anniversary year, there will be a special closing Holy Hour of Thanksgiving offered on Tuesday at 7:00pm. Father Michael Ruffalo from Immaculate Conception Parish in Washington, PA will be the guest presider and homilist.
Reflecting upon the Jubilee Year, I am grateful for the many ways it provided the context for our parish to reflect upon the many graces and blessings that the Lord has showered upon this faith community over the past 50 years. When we consider the myriad of programs, ministries and beautiful facilities that have sprung out of our somewhat
modest beginnings, how can we but fail to see the hand of God in all of it?
On behalf of the entire parish, I would like to thank everyone who had a part in planning the many events and projects that have marked this past year. Literally dozens of people were involved in the celebrations. In particular, I want to mention the work of the special Jubilee committee led by Sam Trentadue that oversaw the yearlong observance.
As we gaze into the future, we would do well to reflect upon the Parish Mission Statement drafted by our Pastoral Council during the Jubilee Year. Building on our past strengths, it provides us with a framework or compass of where we as a parish should be headed as we enter the next phase of our history:
The mission of Saint Louise de Marillac Parish is to be a sign of Christ’s presence for the community by…
… sharing in the mission of Jesus Christ, drawing her members to an authentic encounter of the Heavenly Father through the Sacramental life of the Church and a vibrant devotional prayer life, especially the celebration of the Mass and Eucharistic Adoration.
… imitating the model of our patroness, Saint Louise de Marillac, exemplifying in a particular way the virtue of charity to those in spiritual or material need, both within and beyond our parish boundaries.
… passing on the rich traditions and teachings of the Catholic faith through the sustained and generous support of our parish school and CCD program, and by maintaining vital catechetical and formation programs for all parishioners.
… fostering Christian stewardship, whereby parishioners willingly share their gifts of time, talent and treasure in daily witness to their faith.
