Father Paul's Messages
A New Year’s Message from Fr. Pawel
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As we enter this New Year, my prayer for you is that God blesses you with abundant grace, good health, and peace. May His light shine brightly in your life, guiding your steps and fill your hearts with His love. Let us embrace the New Year and each day with faith and love that God is giving us. Together, let us continue to build our community on the foundation of Christ - living word who dwells among us.
Happy New Year to you all!
Fr. Paul
December 29, 2024
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As we enter this New Year, my prayer for you is that God blesses you with abundant grace, good health, and peace. May His light shine brightly in your life, guiding your steps and fill your hearts with His love. Let us embrace the New Year and each day with faith and love that God is giving us. Together, let us continue to build our community on the foundation of Christ - living word who dwells among us.
Happy New Year to you all!
Fr. Paul
December 29, 2024
A Christmas Message from Fr. Pawel
Dear Parishioners,
As we approach the joyful celebration of our Savior's birth, I want to take a moment to share my heartfelt Christmas blessings with each of you. This season reminds us of the incredible love that God has for us, a love so deep that He sent His only Son into the world to bring light and hope to all.
May this Christmas fill your hearts with the peace and joy that come from knowing Christ is with us, now and always. I pray that the gift of His presence brings healing, peace, and a deeper sense of His grace in your lives. May you feel the goodness of His love in every moment, and may your homes be filled with the true spirit of Christmas— love, compassion, and kindness.
As we celebrate Nativity of the Lord, let us remember the humble birth of our Lord Jesus Christ and the hope that He offers to all. May the light of Christ shine brightly in your lives and guide you into a new year filled with blessings and spiritual growth.
May this Christmas be a time for each of us to have a spiritual experience of God’s love.
In Christ's love,
Fr. Paul
December 22, 2024
Dear Parishioners,
As we approach the joyful celebration of our Savior's birth, I want to take a moment to share my heartfelt Christmas blessings with each of you. This season reminds us of the incredible love that God has for us, a love so deep that He sent His only Son into the world to bring light and hope to all.
May this Christmas fill your hearts with the peace and joy that come from knowing Christ is with us, now and always. I pray that the gift of His presence brings healing, peace, and a deeper sense of His grace in your lives. May you feel the goodness of His love in every moment, and may your homes be filled with the true spirit of Christmas— love, compassion, and kindness.
As we celebrate Nativity of the Lord, let us remember the humble birth of our Lord Jesus Christ and the hope that He offers to all. May the light of Christ shine brightly in your lives and guide you into a new year filled with blessings and spiritual growth.
May this Christmas be a time for each of us to have a spiritual experience of God’s love.
In Christ's love,
Fr. Paul
December 22, 2024
A Sincere and Heartfelt Message from Fr. Pawel
I want to express my heartfelt thanks to each of you for your incredible generosity and kindness that I have experienced. Your thoughtful gifts and the beautiful appreciation cards from your children and our St. Thomas School students have truly touched my heart.
It is inspiring to witness the love and support that flows within our parish communities. Your generosity not only uplifts my spirit but also strengthens my mission.
Thank you for your kindness and all good gestures that show your love. Your kindness makes a difference!
With gratitude and blessings,
PL
10/6/2024
I want to express my heartfelt thanks to each of you for your incredible generosity and kindness that I have experienced. Your thoughtful gifts and the beautiful appreciation cards from your children and our St. Thomas School students have truly touched my heart.
It is inspiring to witness the love and support that flows within our parish communities. Your generosity not only uplifts my spirit but also strengthens my mission.
Thank you for your kindness and all good gestures that show your love. Your kindness makes a difference!
With gratitude and blessings,
PL
10/6/2024
A Message from Fr. Pawel - Rosary Prayer
The month of October is especially dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and Rosary prayer. For many Catholics it carries significant importance in their spiritual life and daily routine because it is more than a simple sequence of prayers; it is a powerful tool for meditation, reflection and connection with God and Mary the Mother of Jesus.
In its core, the Rosary invites individuals to contemplate the life of Christ through the joyful, sorrowful, glorious, and luminous mysteries. Each mystery offers an opportunity to reflect on crucial events in salvation history, helping people to grow in
their understanding of faith and deepening their relationship with God. This meditative aspect of the Rosary transforms a routine prayer into a deeply enriching experience. It is strengthening our faith; through the Rosary Mary intercedes for those who pray, and it unites believers in one prayer.
The Rosary is a powerful tool and prayer that brings numerous graces to those who embrace it. Whether prayed alone or in community, its importance lies in its ability to deepen faith, cultivate peace, and foster a closer relationship with Mary and Jesus. Let the month of October that is dedicated to the Rosary stand as a month of hope and a pathway to spiritual growth.
Listed below are opportunities to pray the Rosary throughout the month of October:
St. Mary’s –Every Sunday morning at 8:00 am before 8:30 am Mass and on Oct. 12 at Noon
St. Thomas- every Wednesday after 8:30 am Mass and on Oct. 12 at Noon at St. Mary’s
Fr. Pawel
10/6/2024
The month of October is especially dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and Rosary prayer. For many Catholics it carries significant importance in their spiritual life and daily routine because it is more than a simple sequence of prayers; it is a powerful tool for meditation, reflection and connection with God and Mary the Mother of Jesus.
In its core, the Rosary invites individuals to contemplate the life of Christ through the joyful, sorrowful, glorious, and luminous mysteries. Each mystery offers an opportunity to reflect on crucial events in salvation history, helping people to grow in
their understanding of faith and deepening their relationship with God. This meditative aspect of the Rosary transforms a routine prayer into a deeply enriching experience. It is strengthening our faith; through the Rosary Mary intercedes for those who pray, and it unites believers in one prayer.
The Rosary is a powerful tool and prayer that brings numerous graces to those who embrace it. Whether prayed alone or in community, its importance lies in its ability to deepen faith, cultivate peace, and foster a closer relationship with Mary and Jesus. Let the month of October that is dedicated to the Rosary stand as a month of hope and a pathway to spiritual growth.
Listed below are opportunities to pray the Rosary throughout the month of October:
St. Mary’s –Every Sunday morning at 8:00 am before 8:30 am Mass and on Oct. 12 at Noon
St. Thomas- every Wednesday after 8:30 am Mass and on Oct. 12 at Noon at St. Mary’s
Fr. Pawel
10/6/2024
A Message from Fr. Paul - Respecting the Sanctity of the Eucharist Celebration
The Eucharistic celebration holds a central place in Catholic life. It is a celebration that reminds us about Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the altar of the cross and embodies the true presence of Jesus Christ among believers feeding them with his divinity. Within this context the principles of courtesy and respect are expected from participants of the Eucharistic celebration.
Unfortunately one of the often overlooked aspects of respect during the Eucharistic celebration is the prohibition against chewing gum. Code of Canon law (Canon 919.1) tells Catholics that they are to abstain from all food and drink (with the exception of water or medicine) for at least one hour before receiving Holy Communion. The reason, of course, is to remind us how special the Eucharist is, nourishing us for eternal life. It is something different from regular food or drink that we consume. Chewing gum - simply saying is breaking that fast and it is a reason to NOT receive Holy Communion. The act of receiving the Eucharist is a moment of profound significance, symbolizing our communion with Christ and the Church. Engaging in behaviors like chewing gum during this time expresses a lack of reverence for the sacredness of the moment and it also expresses lack of respect for the received body of Christ.
It is important to be mindful of our actions within the church that they always express and foster a sense of reverence and respect for the divine nature of place and moment. Let us remember to observe guidelines of courtesy and respect, by doing so we not only honor the sanctity of the Eucharistic celebration but also deepen our personal faith and relationship with Christ.
Fr. Paul
7/21/2024
The Eucharistic celebration holds a central place in Catholic life. It is a celebration that reminds us about Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the altar of the cross and embodies the true presence of Jesus Christ among believers feeding them with his divinity. Within this context the principles of courtesy and respect are expected from participants of the Eucharistic celebration.
Unfortunately one of the often overlooked aspects of respect during the Eucharistic celebration is the prohibition against chewing gum. Code of Canon law (Canon 919.1) tells Catholics that they are to abstain from all food and drink (with the exception of water or medicine) for at least one hour before receiving Holy Communion. The reason, of course, is to remind us how special the Eucharist is, nourishing us for eternal life. It is something different from regular food or drink that we consume. Chewing gum - simply saying is breaking that fast and it is a reason to NOT receive Holy Communion. The act of receiving the Eucharist is a moment of profound significance, symbolizing our communion with Christ and the Church. Engaging in behaviors like chewing gum during this time expresses a lack of reverence for the sacredness of the moment and it also expresses lack of respect for the received body of Christ.
It is important to be mindful of our actions within the church that they always express and foster a sense of reverence and respect for the divine nature of place and moment. Let us remember to observe guidelines of courtesy and respect, by doing so we not only honor the sanctity of the Eucharistic celebration but also deepen our personal faith and relationship with Christ.
Fr. Paul
7/21/2024
Dear Parishioners,
At the heart of our faith lies the belief that in the consecration of bread and wine, they become the true Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. This transformation known as transubstantiation is not just a symbolic act but rather a sacred mystery that demands from us reverence and respect.
The Eucharist celebration is not ritual but a profound encounter with the living Christ. When we receive the consecrated host, we receive God himself to our souls. We receive his divinity, love and sacrifice. This understanding calls us to approach the Eucharist with deep reverence recognizing the sacredness of what we received.
In a similar way our approach and recognition of the Blood of Christ should be marked with reverence. We recognize in consecrated wine the true Blood of Jesus Christ, and we should revere gently acknowledging the presence of precious blood when we receive it or when we are just passing by the chalice. This realization should deepen our appreciation for the sacrifice Jesus made for us and inspire us to live lives worthy of such a gift, reflecting His love and mercy in all that we do.
In our busy lives we may happen to forget about the profound nature of the Eucharist. Yet each Eucharistic celebration is also a reminder and opportunity to dive deeper into that mystery and strengthen our bond with Christ and Church. Let us never forget to approach the altar with hearts full of gratitude and humility, fully aware of the gift we receive.
Fr. Paul
6/23/2024
At the heart of our faith lies the belief that in the consecration of bread and wine, they become the true Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. This transformation known as transubstantiation is not just a symbolic act but rather a sacred mystery that demands from us reverence and respect.
The Eucharist celebration is not ritual but a profound encounter with the living Christ. When we receive the consecrated host, we receive God himself to our souls. We receive his divinity, love and sacrifice. This understanding calls us to approach the Eucharist with deep reverence recognizing the sacredness of what we received.
In a similar way our approach and recognition of the Blood of Christ should be marked with reverence. We recognize in consecrated wine the true Blood of Jesus Christ, and we should revere gently acknowledging the presence of precious blood when we receive it or when we are just passing by the chalice. This realization should deepen our appreciation for the sacrifice Jesus made for us and inspire us to live lives worthy of such a gift, reflecting His love and mercy in all that we do.
In our busy lives we may happen to forget about the profound nature of the Eucharist. Yet each Eucharistic celebration is also a reminder and opportunity to dive deeper into that mystery and strengthen our bond with Christ and Church. Let us never forget to approach the altar with hearts full of gratitude and humility, fully aware of the gift we receive.
Fr. Paul
6/23/2024
Corpus Christi
In the heart of Catholic tradition, Corpus Christi stands as an important testament to the belief in the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. This solemn feast, celebrated annually on the Thursday after Trinity Sunday, holds deep significance for millions of Catholics worldwide. With its roots tracing back to the 13th century, Corpus Christi remains an important occasion, marked by processions in many countries, prayers, and a great sense of reverence.
The essence of Corpus Christi we find in commemorating the institution of the Holy Eucharist during the Last Supper, where Jesus shared bread and wine with his disciples, urging them to partake in remembrance of him. This sacrament symbolizes the spiritual nourishment and unity within the Christian community, binding believers together in a shared faith and devotion.
Central to the Corpus Christi celebration is the Eucharistic procession in some countries, where the consecrated Host is solemnly carried through the streets, adorned with flowers and incense, as a public declaration of faith. This symbolic journey reflects Jesus' humble entry into Jerusalem and serves as a powerful witness to the presence of Christ among his people.
This celebration gives all believers unique opportunity to publicly profess their faith in true presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. It is also a day of thanksgiving for the amazing gift given to the humankind. Our worship of Jesus in His Body and Blood calls us to offer to God our Father a pledge of undivided love and an offering of ourselves to the service of others.
As we celebrating Corpus Christi, let us all pay homage to One true God Jesus Christ who is truly present in the most Holy Sacrament of the altar.
Fr. Paul
6/2/2024
In the heart of Catholic tradition, Corpus Christi stands as an important testament to the belief in the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. This solemn feast, celebrated annually on the Thursday after Trinity Sunday, holds deep significance for millions of Catholics worldwide. With its roots tracing back to the 13th century, Corpus Christi remains an important occasion, marked by processions in many countries, prayers, and a great sense of reverence.
The essence of Corpus Christi we find in commemorating the institution of the Holy Eucharist during the Last Supper, where Jesus shared bread and wine with his disciples, urging them to partake in remembrance of him. This sacrament symbolizes the spiritual nourishment and unity within the Christian community, binding believers together in a shared faith and devotion.
Central to the Corpus Christi celebration is the Eucharistic procession in some countries, where the consecrated Host is solemnly carried through the streets, adorned with flowers and incense, as a public declaration of faith. This symbolic journey reflects Jesus' humble entry into Jerusalem and serves as a powerful witness to the presence of Christ among his people.
This celebration gives all believers unique opportunity to publicly profess their faith in true presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. It is also a day of thanksgiving for the amazing gift given to the humankind. Our worship of Jesus in His Body and Blood calls us to offer to God our Father a pledge of undivided love and an offering of ourselves to the service of others.
As we celebrating Corpus Christi, let us all pay homage to One true God Jesus Christ who is truly present in the most Holy Sacrament of the altar.
Fr. Paul
6/2/2024