Pastor's Corner

2018 08-05 We Are Thankful for Our Parish Staff and Volunteers

Written by:
From our pastor, Father Neil Herlihy

Many people are back to work or school after taking time for summer recreation and vacations.  These include our parish office staff and volunteers, and their families.  Our parish office staff and volunteers consist of dedicated priests, deacons and lay men and women who do so much for our parish and our parishioners.

Pope Francis clearly appreciates those who work in some capacity for the Church.  As recently reported in the publication, “Catholic News Agency”, Our Holy Father stated, “The mission of the Church in the world proceeds through the contribution of those who are part of it.”  He also commented that “some think that there are only bishops, the bosses, and then there are workers.  No, the Church is all of us, everyone, each person has their role in the Church, but we are all the Church.”

Pope Francis celebrates Mass for various workers in the Vatican when his schedule permits.  He also prays for those with whom he works, and when possible, interacts with them.  He wants them to feel that they are integral to the mission of the Church.  At Saint Brigid, we strive to follow the example of Pope Francis by emphasizing the spiritual dimension of the important work that is being done.  We have a Mass for our staff personnel monthly.  In addition, at our weekly staff meetings we pray for those in need, including staff members and volunteers and their families.

The following “Parish Office Blessing” reflects our desire for God to bless our office staff and volunteers as they continue to serve us in so many ways:

GOD OF LOVE AND HOSPITALITY,
WE ASK YOU TO BLESS ALL WHO COME HERE TODAY.
HEAL THE PEOPLE WHO ARE HURTING.
STRENGTHEN THE PEOPLE WHO ARE WEAK.
COMFORT THE PEOPLE WHO ARE SORROWFUL.
CALM THE PEOPLE WHO ARE UPSET.
MAY ALL WHO COME HERE KNOW THE PRESENCE OF CHRIST,
EXPERIENCE THE JOY OF HIS FRIENDSHIP AND GROW IN HIS LOVE.
BLESS OUR PARISH STAFF AND THE VOLUNTEERS
WHO WILL COME TO HELP US IN OUR MINISTRY.
FILL US WITH YOUR LOVE.
HELP US TO BECOME INSTRUMENTS OF YOUR LOVE TO OTHERS.
WE ASK THIS THROUGH JESUS CHRIST, OUR LORD. AMEN.

As we reflect on this prayer, we are invited to be thankful for our parish staff and volunteers at Saint Brigid for all that they do, not only on Sunday, but every day.  Through their faithful service, they truly enhance the spiritual vitality of our wonderful faith community.

2018 08-19 Welcome our New Parochial Vicar, Fr. Peter Ha
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