From the Vicar — February 23rd, 2025
Serviam Altar Server Retreat on March 15th
I am excited to announce our second Serviam Retreat for all altar servers! These retreats take place bi-annually, and they are part of our efforts as a parish to form Spirit-filled missionary disciples of all ages. It is my hope that being an altar server isn’t just something the boys do on Sunday, but that being a part of our Serviam program helps these young men grow into the men God is calling them to be, that they would find a brotherhood that forms them and builds them up into strong Catholic Men, and that they would center their lives around the Eucharist! Our world today needs young men with hearts of service and steadfast devotion to Jesus Christ.
I highly encourage any boy in 4th grade or above to consider joining Serviam. For some, the idea of being up in front of people can be a little nerve-wracking, but as many of our current altar servers can testify, the nerves go away pretty quick, and they end up really enjoying the opportunity to serve at the altar. So, if your son is nervous, encourage him to come to the retreat to get trained and to get to know the other servers, and he might end up really enjoying it.
The retreat on Saturday, March 15th is for all current altar servers, as well as for any boys looking to become altar servers. It begins with the 8am Mass, and goes until 12:30. Breakfast and Lunch will be provided. Please sign up here. Feel free to reach out to me, or Carlene Demers with any questions.
Update on the St. Therese Sacristan Guild
It has been a great blessing to see the interest in the St. Therese Sacristan Guild so far! There are already a dozen girls who have expressed interest in this wonderful opportunity to assist with the Liturgy. My hope for this Guild is similar to what I wrote about Serviam, that this would be an opportunity for greater discipleship, sisterhood, and growth in Faith, and that these young ladies would grow in their devotion for Jesus in the Eucharist. It is an incredible opportunity, and I highly encourage any girl in 4th grade or above to consider it. There will be a retreat for the Sacristan Guild coming up on May 24th, with more information coming soon. If your daughter is interested in getting involved, please contact Carlene Demers.
The Diocesan Services Appeal
As we hear from the Bishop’s message this weekend, the annual Diocesan Services Appeal helps fund many vital ministries across our Diocese, covering many of the corporal and spiritual works of Mercy. Particularly close to home for myself and Deacon Josh: it helps pay for the education of all our Seminarians. We would not have been able to go through Seminary without the support of all those who contribute to the Diocesan Services Appeal. This is just one of the many great causes that are made possible by the DSA. Because this is so vitally connected to the work of the Church in our Diocese, Fr. Mathias and I hope that every family in our parish would prayerfully consider how they are able to support this appeal. Thank you to all those who have contributed in the past, and all those who will generously support in the future! If you are interested in more information on the DSA and what it covers, please take a look at the webpage.