July 1st marks one year of my being a first-time pastor here in Wetmore, Fidelity, and Sabetha! I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on some of the many blessings that we have received from the Lord so that we can celebrate and give thanks for what He has done and is doing in our communities and hearts.
Our new mission statement states that “we seek to be transformed by the fire of Jesus’ love so as to be vessels of love to others.” This (incomplete) list is clear evidence for me that we are indeed seeking and receiving this transformation!
1. 3 new Catholics brought into the Church at Easter Vigil at St. James!
2. Weddings and baptisms at all three parishes that are always a sign of life and hope
3. Consecrating all three parishes to Jesus through Mary on December 8th after a month of preparatory prayer together as a community
4. Well-attended men’s, women’s, and couple’s retreats that brought healing and reconciliation to many hearts
5. ~50 people participating in the “When You Pray” study from all three parishes, going deeper in prayer together
6. 2 physical healing services with 300+ total in attendance from all over the region and many people tangibly experiencing the love of Jesus through praise and prayer together
7. Increased participation in regular confession
8. Continued growth in the culture of vulnerability and praying together in meetings and small groups
9. Many homes being blessed and dedicated anew to Jesus (hopefully more to come!)
10. Further growth in reverence and love for the Mass and Jesus in the Eucharist
Again, this is not a complete list of all the beautiful things that have happened in our parishes this year, but already this is a lot to be grateful for!
Thank you for your warm reception of me into your lives as your pastor. Your openness and commitment to growing deeper in your relationship with Jesus is the best gift that you can give me as my parishioners.
Please continue to seek out time with Him every day in prayer (shoot for 30 minutes!), and don’t forget to include a Hail Mary for me while you do!