I want to look at some of the things I am grateful for in this past year.
I am grateful to be here. Things are going better than I ever would have expected. I never thought I’d be here at St. Leo's although it’s one of the longtime apostolates of the Province. Just didn’t seem it would come up. I have never said “no” to any assignment, so also this one. Now here over two years I can say that I am very blessed to be here.I thank God for the staff of the parish. We have dedicated people who love God and the parish community and give generously of their time, talent, and treasure. Deacon Doug, the other “clerical character” is a great partner full of good experience. Some of those who serve so much here have literally grown up in St. Leo's. This is their true home and they treat it as such.
The Parish Council is a blessing and a help in keeping the Spirit alive in St. Leo's. We have concerned members who want to see our faith community grow and expand.
Our Lay Ministers - Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist, Lectors, and Ushers - make a major contribution to the life of prayer and our liturgical celebrations. All of the Sodalities, Confraternities, Hands and Hearts, and the Knights of Columbus are mainstays of parish life and service. They can be counted on in all times and seasons for joyful support.We have all kinds of volunteers. Some give time all year round. Some come to make ravioli and meatballs. Some come off and on when they can. All are an essential asset and a true sign of God’s Kingdom as they give and serve without taking anything in return. And all our parishioners who are the reason the parish exists. In fact they and all of us ARE the parish, we ARE the local Church.
There always are and will be some conflicts and misunderstandings. Often these come of impassioned attempts to make sure everything happens as it should. There is also reconciliation and forgiveness for our mistakes, overreactions, and failings. I see so much good. I see so much accomplished. I see hope and promise for our future. I look forward to discovering and creating that future together with each and every one of you! God bless us, every one!