This Sunday afternoon we will have our Parish Community Picnic. It will take place from 1 pm to 4 pm on the Holy Redeemer School soccer field, weather permitting. We invite you to join us as we come together as a family of faith. There will be plenty of free food and drinks and great entertainment for our children. Various groups affiliated with our Church such as the Men of Saint Brigid, and the Women of Saint Brigid, and the Knights of Columbus come together in the spirit of collaborative ministry to make this Picnic possible. Many of our parishioners and guests have enjoyed the Picnic in past years.
As noted by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Pope Leo has portrayed the parish as a “living sign of hope, a place of communion, and a welcoming home for all.” He emphasized that a true parish is not just a place of worship but a “community of faith, prayer, and mutual care.” He called on parishes to be “open doors” that invite all into the life of the Church.
In another address as reported by the media outlet “CatholicVote”, Pope Leo said that coming together as brothers and sisters in a parish can “give true life to all of us” and be assign of hope for the world. One way we can come together as a faith community is through participation in our parish picnic.
The following prayer called “A Prayer for Fellowship and Joy”, provided by the media outlet “Prayerlit”, reflects on how our parish picnic can enhance our sense of community:
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Father, thank You for fellowship.You created us for relationship-first with You and then with one another. As we sit, talk, eat, and laugh, may true joy arise. Let this picnic strengthen bonds, create new friendships, and deepen love.May laughter ring freely, burdens be lifted, and joy become contagious. Help us be present in every moment and embrace the gift of togetherness. Where there was weariness, let there now be refreshment. Where there was loneliness, let connection be found.May our fellowship glorify You and uplift each soul. Amen. |
As we reflect on this prayer, and on the sentiments of Pope Leo, we are reminded that hospitality and welcoming are important ways to accompany our parishioners and guests on their journey of faith. Please avail yourselves of this welcoming opportunity to embrace our parish family, and join with your fellow parishioners and their guests this Sunday for food, fun, and fellowship.