This Sunday we celebrate the great feast of Pentecost. On this day, we see the fulfillment of the promise of Jesus to send the Holy Spirit upon his Apostles. And as we know, the Holy Spirit will transform the lives of these Apostles. These frightened men who abandoned Jesus at his Passion will be transformed into bold witnesses who clearly show that they not only understand the teaching of Jesus but also are willing to put his teaching into practice. They will endure persecution, suffering, ridicule, and other forms of trial as they preach his Good News. They will heed the call of Jesus to go forth and make disciples of all nations.

As mentioned previously, Our Holy Father, Pope Francis has invited us to follow the example of the Apostles and truly embrace the Holy Spirit in our lives. In his Apostolic Exhortation, Evangelii Gaudium (The Joy of the Gospel), he stated, “There is no greater freedom than that of allowing oneself to be guided by the Holy Spirit, renouncing the attempt to plan and control everything to the last detail, and instead, letting him enlighten, guide, and direct us, leading us wherever he wills. The Holy Spirit knows well what is needed in every time and place. This is what it means to be mysteriously fruitful.”

As we reflect on these profound words of Pope Francis, and as we celebrate this great feast, we also remember at this time of the year our loved ones and friends who are graduating from various levels of education. Unfortunately, graduation exercises are approached in a very different manner due primarily to the devastating impact of the COVID-19 virus. Most graduation exercises have to be done remotely through some form of online technology. However, we still strive to honor our graduates in a personal way for their accomplishments.

The following “Prayer for Graduates”, provided by www.guideposts.org, the author unknown, asks Our Heavenly Father to guide and bless our loved ones and friends who are graduating:

Heavenly Father,
Surround those who are graduating with Your grace.
Bless them with hope so they move into the future with eager and open hearts.
Help them to put the knowledge, skills, and insights gained through their education to use for the good of all humankind.
Inspire them to believe in the goodness of life even when faced with challenges and difficulties.
As they commence with their lives, may they grow ever more grateful and wise.
All of this we ask in the name of Jesus, your beloved son.  Amen.

We encourage the families and friends of our graduates to take this prayer to heart. And as we celebrate the feast of Pentecost, we are challenged to allow the Holy Spirit to come into our minds, and into our lives, and into our hearts as we strive to cope spiritually in these difficult and uncertain times.

This Monday, as a nation, we celebrate Memorial Day.  This federal holiday is celebrated each year in the United States on the last Monday in May.  On this day, we remember in a special way those men and women in the armed forces who have made the supreme sacrifice in defense of our nation.  We pray for the repose of their souls, and for all those who mourn their passing from this world.  They sacrificed their lives and their freedom and helped make it possible for us to enjoy our lives and our freedom.  They were prematurely separated from family members and friends, and a grateful nation pays them homage and respect.

The following prayer written by Hector Molina, @CatholicEvangelist implores our Heavenly Father for guidance on this special day:

Dear Heavenly Father, 

With a sober heart we come before you this Memorial Day.  We pause for a moment and call to mind all the men and women who have died in the service of our nation since 1776.

Dear God, please look with mercy on our brave and selfless brothers and sisters, who did not shirk from their task but gave themselves completely to the cause of defending and protecting us all.  Bless all who have given their lives for the sake of liberty, and grant them eternal rest with You.

We remember also our brave men and women now serving in our armed forces, both at home and abroad.  Dear God, send out Your angels to protect them all.  Help them discharge their duties honorably and well.  Please bring them safely home to their families and loved ones.  Please bring your peace and mercy to our troubled world.

We ask this, Father, in the name of Jesus, your Son.  Amen

As we reflect on this prayer, we are reminded to focus on our Heavenly Father for guidance, and to truly appreciate our precious faith and freedom which we should never take for granted.  This is especially important in these difficult and uncertain times when we have witnessed a dramatic change in the fabric of our society in a very short time due to the devastating impact of the Covid-19 virus.  This change has caused us to view our faith and our freedom in a different light and made us more acutely aware of the reality that there are events and circumstances that are beyond our control.

In addition, on this day, our bishops invite us to make time for prayer.  We can join our brothers and sisters who pray for the repose of the souls of these men and women who have gone before us, and for the consolation of their family members and friends.

 

As we know, we are currently in difficult and uncertain times due primarily to the devastating impact of the Covid-19 virus.  Very few could have predicted the drastic changes that have occurred in our society in a very short time.  We recently went from crowded Churches to empty Churches.  Most Church services were suspended throughout the nation and in many parts of the world.  Catholics could no longer attend Mass and receive the Eucharist for an indefinite period.  Many previously scheduled marriages and baptisms were deferred to a later time to be determined.  The faithful found it difficult to avail themselves of the Sacrament of Reconciliation.  Some Catholics were disappointed and frustrated primarily with the actions of various diocesan bishops and felt they were unfairly being denied the sacraments.

Canon 843.1 states, “Sacred ministers cannot deny the sacraments to those who seek them at appropriate times, are properly disposed and are not prohibited by law from receiving them.”

Msgr. Charles Pope, writing in the publication “Our Sunday Visitor”, addressed the concerns of those who believed the bishops or civil authorities were denying them access to the sacraments.  He stated, “While it is true that the faithful have a general right to have access to the sacraments, it is not an absolute right.”  For “… grave reason, a bishop can forbid the celebration of Masses in certain areas for a certain time.”

He noted that due to the Covid-19 virus, “Public health authorities have asserted that a serious threat exists to the well-being of others and have decreed that a wide number of activities cease in the meantime, including large public gatherings.”  He went on to indicate that, “It is true that the Church should generally resist attempts by the state to limit our religious liberties but that is not what is happening here.  Government officials did not single out Catholic Masses or religious activities.  Rather they issued norms and later decrees limiting all public gatherings in various ways.”  However, many people expressed their view that these norms and decrees were unreasonable, and in some instances, unfair to religious institutions.

Msgr. Pope urged patience and stated, “We should be sympathetic to both those who have fears about the virus and to those who have sadness at the loss of the celebration of the liturgy publicly.  Some fairness is also due to the bishops who themselves are facing a situation unprecedented in most of their lifetimes.  The varying responses reflect varying local conditions and decrees.”

He reminded the faithful that, “As for denying the sacraments in general, most dioceses have made exceptions.  The faithful who are ill can still be anointed and receive Communion.  Funerals, weddings, and infant baptisms can still take place, though limited in most places to immediate family.”

As we consider the insightful comments of Msgr. Pope, and as civil, commercial, and religious institutions are gradually opened up once again, we are invited to pray for our bishops.  We may pray, that inspired by the Holy Spirit, and giving due consideration to health concerns, they will make prudent decisions that will allow our Catholic faithful to attend Mass and avail themselves of the precious sacraments of our Church for which they so eagerly hunger.

 

This Sunday we celebrate Mother’s Day.  We are invited on this day to make a special effort to honor mothers for all they do for their families and for the many sacrifices they make on behalf of their spouses and children.  In addition, we can also thank them for the love they provide in so many ways.

When we think of mothers, we often think of Mary, the mother of Jesus, the spouse of Joseph.  May is the month of Mary, and this month we honor her in a special way.  As previously mentioned, the Church presents Mary as a model of love in its fullness.  The love she had for Jesus and Joseph is not reserved for them alone.  It is the same precious love that she has for us, the same precious love she shares with us, an unselfish love that we should not take for granted.

Mary is not only the Mother of Jesus but also the Mother of our Church.  The Second Vatican Council teaches that “…By her motherly love, she cares for her Son’s sisters and brothers who still journey the earth surrounded by dangers and difficulties, until they are led into their blessed home.”  In his great encyclical, “Evangelium Vitae” (The Gospel of Life), Pope John Paul II reminds us that Mary is “…the incomparable model of how life should be welcomed and cared for.”

Our Holy Father, Pope Francis also invites us to look to Mary for inspiration.  This need for inspiration is especially important at this time as we continue to strive to cope with the devastating impact of the Covid-19 virus.  In an address, as reported in the publication, “For Your Marriage”, he stated that Mary “saw many difficult moments” and “like a good mother she is close to us, so that we may never lose courage before the adversities of life” and “might feel her support in facing and overcoming the difficulties of our human and Christian journey.”

Pope Francis also noted that Mary provides loving care for us.  He stated, “she helps us grow as human beings, and in the faith, to be strong and never to fall into the temptation of being human beings and Christians in a superficial way, but to live responsibly, to strive even higher.”  As a mother, Mary “teaches us to be, like her, capable of making definitive decisions, definitive choices.”

We are challenged to take the profound words of Pope Francis and Pope John Paul II to heart as

On behalf of our priests, deacons, staff, and parishioners of Saint Brigid, I wish all mothers a happy, healthy, and holy Mother’s Day.

Mary, Our Lady of Fatima, intercede for us.

Mary, Our Mother, pray for us.

 

Pope Francis recently named Bishop Gregory Hartmayer as the new Archbishop of Atlanta.   He will be installed on May 6^th.  Bishop Hartmayer is a Franciscan priest and is currently serving as the Bishop of Savannah.  He is very familiar with certain aspects of the Archdiocese of Atlanta having served as a Pastor here for more than fifteen years, primarily at Saint Philip Benizi Church in Jonesboro.

As reported in the Georgia Bulletin, he looks forward to assuming his new responsibilities, stating that one of his challenges “will be to be available, to be visible, and to visit and to be present to as many of the faith communities, and educational institutions and other institutions, social outreach, and as much as I can I look forward to seeing more and more of Atlanta and what is going on here.”

Bishop Hartmayer joins us in a time of great upheaval in Churches throughout the world due primarily to the impact of the COVID-19 virus.  He stated, “These are difficult times in our society and I think people are looking for something, as they always have, to hold on to that has roots (that) has tradition that has meaning, has depth.   And I think the Catholic Church continues to offer that depth despite our imperfections.”

As a Pastor, Bishop Hartmayer has dealt with difficult times in the past.  In an Easter reflection written many years ago while he was a Pastor, he challenged the faithful to consider the empty tomb of Jesus and how it can impact their lives.  His words are very relevant today as we strive to deal with this time of uncertainty.  He stated, “Sometimes it is easier for us to remain in the tomb, depressed or anxious, no matter how painful.  Sometimes it is just easier to remain in the tomb than it is for us to straighten up or settle down or to do something to help ourselves.”

“God did not make us to lie in a tomb or be burdened by a gloom and doom view of the world.  God is not to be found in the evil that entraps us.  He is found in the love, compassion and forgiveness he raises in the hearts of those men and women whose lives reflect God’s presence in their midst.”  This is, in essence, a message of hope for us to consider.

Bishop Hartmayer is also a strong supporter of Catholic education, having served as a Catholic school teacher, educator, and principal.  He stated, “…my major reason for supporting Catholic schools and giving them the attention I think they need is to ensure that they remain Catholic, and the faith is passed on, in an understandable and practical way.”

As we reflect on the sentiments, experience, and background of Bishop Hartmayer, we are invited to keep him in our prayers as he assumes his role as shepherd of our Archdiocese.

Today we celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday.  Pope John Paul II, now Saint John Paul II, had a great appreciation for and understanding of mercy.  He stated in one of his papal addresses:  “What is mercy if not the boundless love of God, who confronted with human sin, restrains the sentiment of severe justice and, allowing Himself to be moved by the wretchedness of His creatures, spurs Himself to the total gift of self, in the Son’s cross?  Who can say that he is free from sin and does not need God’s mercy?  As people of this restless time of ours, wavering between the emptiness of self-examination and the humiliation of despair, we have a greater need than ever for a regenerating experience of mercy.”

Today as we focus on the mercy of God, our Church has stated the following about this great feast, as previously noted: “During the Church’s millennium celebration in 2000, Pope John Paul II declared that the Second Sunday of Easter be known as “Divine Mercy Sunday”.  Prior to this celebration, the Pope also wrote a profound encyclical called “Rich in Mercy”.  This encyclical explained the doctrinal and scriptural foundations for our understanding of mercy.  Our Holy Father looked to a holy woman of Poland, Sr. Faustina, for inspiration.  He canonized Sr. Faustina at that same Mass in 2000 at which he instituted the observance of Divine Mercy Sunday.

He also clearly articulated the essential message that Jesus gave to Sr. Faustina and the message is that the graces of His mercy are greater than the stains of our sins.”

In these difficult and uncertain times, we are challenged to truly appreciate this day and reflect a spirit of mercy, repentance and reconciliation in our lives.  Jesus’ message to Faustina reminds us that there is no limit to the Lord’s mercy for those who truly believe, for those who humbly ask for forgiveness.

The following prayer provided by “Catholic Online” reflects the depth of the mercy that God extends to us:

Eternal God, in whom mercy is endless and the treasury of compassion inexhaustible,

look kindly upon us and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments we might not despair nor become despondent,

but with great confidence submit ourselves to Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy itself.  Amen.

As we reflect on this prayer, and on the words of Our Holy Father, we invite our parishioners and friends to embrace the generous gift of God’s mercy in a humble spirit of thanksgiving.

                           

 

Today, Easter Sunday, we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus.  The suffering of the cross gives way to the glory of the Resurrection.  Just as we share in the suffering of Christ in this life, we hope to one day share in his glory. Through his Resurrection, Jesus has conquered sin and death.  This is the message of his Good News.  This is the message of Easter, and Pope Francis invites us to embrace this message.

In a recent address, as reported in the media outlet “Catholic News Agency”, Our Holy Father stated, “Christ is alive and he remains with us.  Risen, he shows us the light of his face, and he does not abandon all those experiencing hardship, pain and sorrow.  Yet Easter is also the beginning of the new world, set free from the slavery of sin and death: the world open at last to the Kingdom of God, a Kingdom of love, peace and fraternity.”

He added, “May the Risen Christ, who flung open the doors of the tomb, open our hearts to the needs of the disadvantaged, the vulnerable, the poor, the unemployed, the marginalized, and all those who knock at our door in search of bread, refuge, and the recognition of their dignity.”  As Christians, we are challenged to take the words of Our Holy Father to heart.

As we know, due to the impact of the coronavirus, we continue to struggle and sacrifice.  And so, we cannot come together at this time to worship as a faith community.  However, we still welcome all to our vibrant Parish community.  We especially welcome those who participate in our Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) and Rite of Christian Initiation for Children (RCIC) programs as they continue to grow in their knowledge and understanding of the Catholic faith.

We also welcome all those who do not attend our Church on a regular basis.  When the situation concerning the coronavirus stabilizes, we hope that you will choose to become more fully involved in our community of faith and to get spiritually closer to the Lord and trust in him. We invite you to join with us as we strive to embrace and truly live the faith we boldly proclaim.

As we celebrate this special day, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to all who serve our faith community.  On behalf of our priests, deacons and staff, I wish you and your families a holy, happy and healthy Easter season.

Our Lord is risen!  Let us rejoice and be glad.

This Sunday we celebrate Palm Sunday as we begin the holiest week of the Church year.  We focus on the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. In our faith tradition, during Holy Week we commemorate the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus.

In a Palm Sunday address, Pope Francis called on the faithful to focus on the importance of Holy Week and strive to more fully appreciate what Jesus has done for us.  As reported in the publication the “National Catholic Register”, Our Holy Father prayed that we would have the grace “to follow in faith our Savior’s example of humility, to heed his lesson of patient suffering, and thus merit a share in his victory over the spirit of evil.”  Pope Francis challenged people of faith to face moments of difficulty with “confident abandonment to the Father and to his saving will, which bestows life and mercy.”  He emphasized the importance of the silence of Jesus throughout his Passion, and stated, “By our silent witness in prayer we give ourselves and others an accounting of the hope that is within.”

As we celebrate this day, we should not forget those who suffer from the impact of the coronavirus, and also Christians throughout the world, especially in the Middle East, who continue to endure suffering and hardship as they strive to profess their faith.  The following prayer titled “Palm Sunday” provided by the website “Catholic Images” reflects the need for Jesus in this world and the importance to identify with our suffering brothers and sisters:

GRACIOUS GOD, YOU HAVE HEARD THE CRIES   OF YOUR SUFFERING PEOPLE.

YOU HAVE SENT JESUS TO US TO BE OUR REDEEMER AND BROTHER.

OPEN OUR EYES TO SEE THE IMMENSITY OF YOUR LOVE FOR US AND THE WONDER OF WHAT YOU HAVE DONE FOR US.

GIVE US THE COURAGE TO BE YOUR HANDS AND HEART FOR THOSE WHO ARE IN PAIN.

GIVE US THE WISDOM TO SPEAK OUT FOR JUSTICE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS.

MAY YOUR WILL BE DONE IN US TODAY AND ALWAYS.  AMEN.

As we reflect on this prayer, we are challenged to keep our focus on Our Lord and avoid the many commercial distractions of the season.  Today, as we celebrate and experience the joy of Palm Sunday, as we shout “Hosanna”, we are challenged to heed the words of Our Holy Father and strive to embrace this week in a spirit of humility and reverence and experience this special time of grace.

 

We quickly find ourselves in difficult and uncertain times.  As we strive to deal with the on-going and fluid impact of the Coronavirus, as a faith community we are invited to turn to Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mother of the Church and our Mother for her guidance and intercession as we pray the following prayer provided by the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops.

Holy Virgin of Guadalupe,
Queen of the Angels and Mother of the Americas.
We fly to you today as your beloved children.
We ask you to intercede for us with your Son,
  as you did at the wedding in Cana.
 
Pray for us, loving Mother,
  and gain for our nation and world,
  and for all our families and loved ones,
  the protection of your holy angels,
  that we may be spared the worst of this illness.
 
For those already afflicted,
  we ask you to obtain the grace of healing and deliverance.
Hear the cries of those who are vulnerable and fearful,
  wipe away their tears and help them to trust.
 
In this time of trial and testing,
  teach all of us in the Church to love one another and to be patient and kind.
Help us to bring the peace of Jesus to our land and to our hearts.
 
We come to you with confidence,
  knowing that you truly are our compassionate Mother,
  health of the sick and cause of our joy.
Shelter us under the mantle of your protection, 
 keep us in the embrace of your arms,
 help us always to know the love of your Son, Jesus. 
 Amen.

Mary, Mother of the Church, intercede for us.
Mary, our Mother, pray for us.

 

St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated on Tuesday, March 17th.  It is a national holiday in Ireland and is generally recognized as an important day for people of Irish heritage.  St. Patrick joins Saint Brigid as one of the patron saints of Ireland.  St. Patrick was a priest and later became a bishop in the fifth century.  As a youth, he lived in Britain, was kidnapped and taken to Ireland where he lived as a servant.   After six years, he escaped and went back to Britain.  He later returned to Ireland as a missionary and taught the people about the Christian God, and prepared many of them for baptism and entrance into the Catholic Church.  St. Patrick is traditionally associated with the shamrock, a three-leaf clover.  He made use of it to teach about the Trinity (the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit).  He worked tirelessly in his ministry and won a very special place in the hearts of the Irish people.

As reported in the publication Stubhill News, Pope Francis urged Catholics to avoid the commercialism usually associated with St. Patrick’s Day.  He stated, “It is very tempting to be distracted by all the beer and decadent green clothes.  Parades full of glamour.  But those who partake in these activities forget the real meaning of St. Patrick’s Day.”   St. Patrick focused on people, not parades.  He focused on eternal rewards and was responsible for many people choosing to embrace the Catholic faith.

As we reflect on the life and example of St. Patrick, we are reminded that we have many adults and children who are considering embracing the Catholic faith through their involvement in our Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, and our Rite of Christian Initiation for Children programs.  Through their participation in these programs, many of them will receive the sacraments of Baptism, First Eucharist, and/or Confirmation at our Easter Vigil Mass.  Please keep them, their sponsors, and their instructors in your prayers.

The following extract is taken from the prayer, “Saint Patrick’s Breastplate”, which is a powerful prayer composed by Saint Patrick asking for the Lord’s guidance:

I RISE TODAY

THROUGH A MIGHTY STRENGTH,

THE INVOCATION OF THE TRINITY,

THROUGH BELIEF IN THE THREENESS,

THROUGH CONFESSION OF THE ONENESS,

OF THE CREATOR OF CREATION.

As we reflect on this prayer, we are reminded that Saint Patrick prayed for perseverance to be a faithful witness to the Gospel as he embraced the mission and ministry of Christ.  May we strive to be faithful witnesses to the Gospel as we wait to celebrate the Easter Resurrection of Jesus.

 

On Saturday morning, March 7th, a Mass was celebrated at Holy Cross Catholic Church honoring the Catholic Woman and Teen of the Year for each of those parishes which are members of the

Cappy Foley was chosen as the Catholic Woman of the Year, and Kaya Ilustrisimo was chosen as the Catholic Teen of the Year for Saint Brigid Parish. 

We truly appreciate their many important contributions to our parish as we strive to sustain and enhance the spiritual vitality of our faith community.  They inspire us by their consistent example of generous and unselfish service.  They have certainly exhibited the love of God and love of neighbor as they continue on their journey of faith.

Cappy Foley has been a long time parishioner at Saint Brigid.  She is one of the founding members of the Walking With Purpose Program at Saint Brigid and has served as a board member, operational coordinator, table leader, and facilitator.  She is also Co-President of the Circle of Sisters here at the Parish.  Cappy often works behind the scenes, and is thoughtful and conscientious, paying great attention to necessary details at various events and functions at the Parish.  She volunteers her time to provide food and supplies through our Sweet and Salty Saints, and Supper Saints ministries.  Cappy is also a faithful member of our Funeral luncheon ministry.  In all that she does, Cappy finds great joy in serving the Lord and serving the faith community of Saint Brigid.

Kaya Ilustrisimo has been a dependable and joyful member of our teen group.  She has served for two years as a teen leader, and for four years as an altar server, including three years as the lead altar server at our Life Teen Mass.  Kaya has participated in various teen retreats and mission trips and has been a faithful member of the teen Wednesday Night Bible study.  She has served as Student Council Class President for her High School in her freshman and sophomore years.  Kaya has also served as Student Council social media chair, as a Varsity tennis player, and as President of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.   In all that she does, she serves the Saint Brigid faith community and her school community with a joyful spirit.  Kaya is naturally engaging, interacts well with her peers, and is greatly appreciated by her Youth Ministry coordinators and core group.

On behalf of the priests, deacons, staff, and parishioners of Saint Brigid, I congratulate Cappy and Kaya for the honor they have received.

 

This week we will host a Lenten Parish Mission from Monday, March 2nd to Wednesday, March 4th.  A Parish Mission can provide an opportunity for spiritual growth as we strive to renew and strengthen our relationship with the Lord.  The Mission will be presented by Deacons Eddie Ensley and Robert Hermann.  They are nationally recognized presenters, with many years of experience in leading parish missions.  The Theme of the Mission is “Finding Inner Peace.”

Deacons Eddie and Robert will focus on the importance of prayer, and how Mary, as our model of prayer and discipleship, points us to Jesus, and how Mary’s example can help us deal with some of the difficulties of daily living.  They will also focus on the ways we can effectively seek healing and reconciliation in our relationships with family members and friends.

For many of us, Lent is a good time to seek healing, and reflect on the wounds and slights that all too often impact our relationships with family members and friends.  We can take the time to consider which way we are heading, and how we may be able to alter our spiritual course.  It is also a good time to confront the temptations that are all around us.  These temptations are very real and very powerful.  The Mission can help us address these temptations and make real and substantive progress on our Lenten journey.

As we know, Jesus came to call sinners, not the self-righteous.  As previously mentioned, one of our leading catholic scholars reminds us that sin has both a personal and communal dimension.  Sin clouds the mind in moral confusion and closes the heart to God’s love and truth.  But in God’s light, we see sin for what it really is.  When we sin, it does not necessarily mean that we are bad people.  It means that we are missing the mark and refusing to listen to God’s word and obey His will.  As a way to get back on the mark and follow the light of Christ, our Church places a special emphasis on the Sacrament of Reconciliation.  Through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, we can cleanse our souls as we prepare for the commemoration of the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus.  We are invited to avail ourselves of the Sacrament during the Lenten season.

We are also invited to attend our Mission and gain some practical insights on how we can better live our lives as followers of Christ, and there will be both morning and evening sessions offered to help accommodate our schedules.  Details concerning the Mission can be obtained from the Parish Bulletin and website as well as from the Parish office.

I hope that you will prayerfully consider joining us for this Parish Mission and avail yourself of this great opportunity to enhance the importance of your Lenten journey.

 

The season of Lent begins on Wednesday which in the Church year is Ash Wednesday. It is a day of fasting and abstinence. Ash Wednesday derives its name from the practice of placing ashes on the foreheads of people as a reminder of human mortality and as a sign of repentance and contrition. Many Christians flock to Churches to receive ashes on this day as they initiate their Lenten journey. Lent is the time, approximating forty days, of reflection and penance leading up to Easter.

In an address focused on the Lenten season, as reported in the publication, “Catholic For Life”, Pope Francis stated,

“Let us not allow this season of grace to pass in vain!
Let us ask God to help us set out on a path of true conversion.
Let us leave behind our selfishness and self-absorption, and turn to Jesus’ Pasch.
Let us stand beside our brothers and sisters in need, sharing our spiritual and material goods with them.
In this way, by concretely welcoming Christ’s victory over sin and death into our lives,
we will also radiate its transforming power to all creation.”

As we reflect on these profound words of Pope Francis, we are invited to strive to unite our hearts to the Lord in a very substantive way. During this special time in the Church year, we can, therefore, turn to God and seek renewal in heart, mind, and body through the disciplines of Lent: prayer, almsgiving, and fasting if we are physically able.

As we begin our Lenten journey, we can respond to the challenge to truly turn away from sin and towards the living God. As disciples, we should admit that we are all sinners and need help in battling our temptations. We are encouraged to take Lent seriously, reflect on our own shortcomings and failures and guard against them. We should recognize the need to acknowledge our sins, not rationalize or excuse them, and avail ourselves of the Sacrament of Reconciliation as deemed appropriate. The Sacrament is not here to punish us but rather to get us closer to the God who loves us. It is here to heal, not to condemn.

A schedule of important dates, events, and liturgies during Lent and during Holy Week can be found on the Parish website. This schedule includes details concerning Stations of the Cross each Friday during the season. It also includes details of our upcoming Lenten Parish Mission.

We are invited to avail ourselves of this special time of grace as we prepare to celebrate the Easter Resurrection of Our Lord.

For more than two decades, Saint Brigid Catholic Church has served the spiritual needs of Catholics in the North Atlanta area.  We have provided a spiritual home where our people could find fellowship in Christ, raise their children in a spiritual environment, expand the knowledge of their faith, and work to fulfill their God-given purpose.

Our existing parish facilities have served us well, and now we are a thriving faith community with over 4300 families, blessed with active lay leaders and dynamic ministries.  As our parish has grown, we have struggled to accommodate the over eighty parish ministries and organizations seeking space for meetings, activities, and fellowship.  Scheduling events and functions can be difficult due to space limitations.   Our limited space hinders our ability to add new ministries and expand existing ones.

Our parish leadership, including our expansion committee, has reminded us that we have not entered into a major expansion project in fifteen years.  After careful study and discussion over the last two years, our leadership has asked us as a faith community to consider and evaluate the feasibility of the construction of a Pastoral Life Center.  This proposed large free-standing two-story Pastoral Life Center would serve as an investment in the spiritual vitality of our Parish and strengthen our efforts to enhance our faith and fellowship.  It would also serve as a legacy to our children and grandchildren.  The new Center would enable us to add new ministries and programs and expand existing ones, helping to ensure that our Parish will continue to be vibrant and flourish.

Our parish leadership, in coordination with a professional advisory firm, has prepared a summary of the proposed project and a brief survey. The summary and the survey were distributed after the Masses on recent weekends.  The summary and survey are also on the following pages in this bulletin and on our Parish website.

We appreciate all who have participated in the survey.  If anyone would like additional information about the proposed project, they are invited to attend one of our information sessions scheduled for Monday, February 17th or Wednesday, February 19th at 7:00 pm in Corbett Hall, or they may contact Parish representatives:

Jim Shields:  jrsx5@bellsouth.net

Bill Stuhltrager:  stuhltrw@att.net

Brian Dooling:  bdooling@archatl.com

Nancy Ketchum:  Nancy.ketchum@att.net

Please be assured that although the project will require a capital campaign, you are not under any obligation to participate in the project.  We simply want you to understand the project so we can gauge your level of interest and support.

Please also be assured that we are challenged to be good stewards of Church funds.  Due to your generosity and the prudent management of our Parish leadership, our Church is debt-free.  We do not intend to initiate the project unless we can remain debt-free.  Our Parish leadership believes our resources should be directed to people and ministries, and not used to pay interest.

I truly appreciate all you do to enhance the spiritual vitality of our faith community.

Thank you all and God bless you.

 

Next Saturday, many married couples in our faith community will renew their marriage vows after the 5:00 p.m. Vigil Mass, and then gather in Corbett Hall for their annual Sweetheart Dinner Dance, as they await Valentine’s Day.  They will focus on the sacrament of marriage and affirm Christ as the foundation of their marriage.  They will also affirm their love for their spouse and more importantly their love for Christ.

Pope Francis has a great understanding of, and appreciation for, the sacrament of marriage.  In an address reported in the publication, “The Catholic World Report”, Our Holy Father stated, “We were created to love, as a reflection of God and His love.  And in a matrimonial union, the man and woman realize this vocation, as a sign of reciprocity and the full and definitive communion of life.”  He further indicated, “Married couples, thanks to the Sacrament, are invested with a genuine mission, that of making visible, starting with simple and ordinary things, the love Christ has for His Church.”

Pope Francis also expressed his compassion and concern toward couples who are struggling in some way in their marriages.  He stated, “The plan inherent in marriage is truly wonderful!  It is expressed in simplicity, and also the fragility of the human condition.  We are well aware of the many difficulties and trials that there may be in the life of a married couple.  The important thing is to keep alive the link with God, which is the basis of the matrimonial bond.”

As we reflect on these words, we also remember those friends, relatives and neighbors whose marriages may be troubled.  We pray that they will turn to the Lord and seek reconciliation as they strive to address their difficulties.  We also remember those friends, relatives and neighbors whose marriages have not endured for one reason or another, and we pray that they may seek the healing they need, especially when appropriate through the process of annulment available through the Catholic Church.

Our Church teaches that Christ is the sign and sacrament of God’s presence in the world and that the married couple then joins Christ as an outward sign of the love of God.  They are able to open themselves to each other in love because God has first loved them.  Pope Francis reminds all of us, “Married life is beautiful, and must be protected.”  As we reflect on these profound words of Our Holy Father, we congratulate those couples who will be renewing their vows next Saturday, and we pray that many single people will be called to embrace the sacrament of marriage as they continue on their journey of faith.

This week we celebrate “Catholic Schools Week.”  Catholic education has always been a priority for the Catholic bishops of our nation.  For many years, Catholic schools had been staffed primarily by dedicated nuns, religious brothers, and priests.  They are now staffed primarily by dedicated lay teachers who truly view teaching as their vocation.  They strive to educate and form students who will embrace and spread the faith.

As reported by the publication, “Catholic News Agency”, Dr. Tom Burnford, President of the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA), stated, “Catholic schools are instruments of the new evangelization.  They are evangelistic communities of faith that serve as a witness, not only to parents who come to the school but to the entire parish geography and surrounding areas.”  In addressing the education and formation of students in Catholic schools, he remains optimistic.  This is despite the increasingly secular cultural environment in this nation, rising tuition costs, and other challenges facing Catholic schools.  He noted, “Catholic schools have a bright future in the United States.  These schools work…in the formation of the whole person, and they’re such a gift to the country because of the quality of graduates, who contribute to society and to the Church.”

As we reflect on these comments, and as we celebrate Catholic Schools Week, it is appropriate to note that this coming Saturday, February 1st,  we will also celebrate the feast day of Saint Brigid of Kildare, the patron saint of our Parish.  She is also the patron saint of students.  Catholic education was very important to her.  She worked to see that the Catholic faith was taught clearly and thoroughly, and she founded several schools.

As mentioned previously, Saint Brigid was an Irish Christian nun who was known for her extraordinary spirituality.  She worked tirelessly to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ, and traveled widely throughout Ireland, founding many convents and fostering vocation awareness.  Saint Brigid organized communal consecrated religious life for the women of Ireland.  Her focus on communal prayer and work attracted many followers.  Along with Saint Patrick and others, she played a major role in making Ireland a Christian nation.  Many would travel long distances to seek her spiritual advice and counsel.  Many were led to the faith through her words and actions.

Saint Brigid is also associated with Christian charity and is celebrated for her generosity to those in need.   It was said that she could not bear to see anyone cold or hungry since she truly believed that Christ dwelt in every person.  She labored among the less fortunate with love and compassion.  Her love of God and love of neighbor were obvious to all who knew her.

As we celebrate the life of our patron saint, may we also look to her for guidance and strive to follow her example.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As mentioned previously, Saint Brigid was an Irish Christian nun who was known for her extraordinary spirituality.  She worked tirelessly to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ, and travelled widely throughout Ireland, founding many convents and fostering vocation awareness.  Saint Brigid organized communal consecrated religious life for the women of Ireland.  Her focus on communal prayer and work attracted many followers.  Along with Saint Patrick and others, she played a major role in making Ireland a Christian nation.  Many would travel long distances to seek her spiritual advice and counsel.  Many were led to the faith through her words and actions.

 

Saint Brigid is also associated with Christian charity and is celebrated for her generosity to those in need.   It was said that she could not bear to see anyone cold or hungry since she truly believed that Christ dwelt in every person.  She labored among the less fortunate with love and compassion.  Her love of God and love of neighbor were obvious to all who knew her.

 

As we celebrate the life of our patron saint, may we also look to her for guidance and strive to follow her example.

                                                          

This Monday as a nation we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. for his work in promoting the dignity of the human person.  In honoring his legacy, we recognize the great strides that our country has made in overcoming the racial injustices of the past as hearts and minds have been changed.  We also acknowledge that much still needs to be done to heal the wounds and divisions that continue to exist in our nation.  This week we also celebrate the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity and we are asked to pray for the progress that is still needed to foster a true sense of unity in our nation.

As we reflect on the contributions of Dr. King, we are reminded that he has a niece named Alveda King.   As we have mentioned in the past, she is a Christian woman, a mother and a grandmother, and an outspoken pro-life advocate residing here in Georgia.  She often appears on television and has a national following.  She also speaks about the sanctity of human life at schools and churches and states that full rights for all should include the rights of the unborn.   Alveda  King reminds us that as we acknowledge the strides our country has made in overcoming racial injustice, we cannot ignore another grave injustice that continues in our time.  It is the injustice of the callous disregard for human life, especially the life of the unborn.  Ms. King has reaffirmed her belief in the sanctity and protection of all human life from conception to natural death.  She has urged us to place our faith in Jesus, the Divine Healer, and to continue to strive to change hearts and minds to correct this grave injustice.

As we reflect on the sentiments of Ms. King, we are reminded that this coming Wednesday, our bishops will celebrate a special Mass for the Unborn at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Atlanta.  The Mass will bring attention to the 1973 Roe vs. Wade decision of the United States Supreme Court which effectively legalized abortion in this country and which is clearly contrary to Catholic teaching concerning the fundamental dignity of the human person.   Our Holy Father, Pope Francis has challenged us to embrace the fundamental dignity of the human person by bearing witness not only to the value and sacredness of the unborn, but also to the elderly, and the physically and mentally ill.  He also asked us to be compassionate toward those suffering from the painful trauma of abortion and to pray for their healing.

We are invited to take to heart the examples of  Dr. King, his niece Alveda King, and Pope Francis and do our part in promoting the dignity of the human person as we continue on our journey of faith.

 

This Sunday we celebrate the feast of the Baptism of Our Lord.  It marks the end of our Christmas Season.  Our Catechism states, “Jesus begins his public life after having himself baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan.”  It further indicates that although the baptism by John was intended for sinners, “Jesus’ gesture is a manifestation of his self-emptying.”

As we celebrate this feast, we are reminded that the Sacrament of Baptism is the gateway to the other sacraments.  As noted in our Catechism, “Baptism is the first and chief sacrament of forgiveness of sins because it unites us with Christ, who died for our sins and rose for our justification.”  Baptism is also an important step in our faith journey.  In a recent address, Our Holy Father, Pope Francis stated, “The sacrament assumes a journey of faith.”  He noted, “In virtue of the Holy Spirit, baptism immerses us in the death and resurrection of the Lord, drowning the old man in the baptismal font, dominated by the sin that divides us from God, a giving birth to the new man recreated in Christ.”  He further noted, “Immersing us in Christ, baptism also makes us members of his body, which is the Church, and participates in its mission in the world.”

As we focus on the Baptism of Our Lord, and on the words of Our Holy Father, this Sunday we also focus on the mission of the Mustard Seed Communities (MSC).  Our Church reminds us that we are called to respect the fundamental dignity of the human person and hope to see that dignity reflected in all God’s children.  This respect for God’s children is reflected in the work of the Mustard Seed Communities.  It cares for several hundred children and adults.  Many of these children and adults have special physical and mental health needs, and some had been abandoned by their families.  MSC strives to protect the most vulnerable of God’s people.  It has facilities in Jamaica, Nicaragua, the Dominican Republic, and Africa.  It also manages a number of community outreach programs to combat poverty and provide educational opportunities to local populations.

As mentioned previously, Saint Brigid Parish supports MSC primarily through its spiritual and financial assistance.  Our parishioners also participate in mission trips to assist in the construction of Churches at MSC facilities and assist in the construction of appropriate housing for children and adults in need.  Some of our parishioners have also adopted children from the various communities of Mustard Seed.  Representatives of MSC will be available after the Masses this weekend to answer questions about MSC and the work it does.  Please prayerfully consider supporting MSC as we stand united with the least of our brothers and sisters.

 

This past Wednesday we celebrated the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God, as we began a New Year.  As we reflect on this day, we look to Mary as a model, and we are urged to follow her example of holiness.  As noted in the publication “Catholic News Agency”, Pope Francis said, “Devotion to Mary…is a requirement of the Christian life.”  He stated, “If our faith is not to be reduced to an idea or doctrine, all of us need a mother’s heart, one which knows how to keep the tender love of God and to feel the heartbeat of all around us.”  He further indicated, “For Mary is exactly what God wants us to be, what he wants his Church to be: A Mother who is tender and lowly, poor in material goods and rich in love, free of sin and united to Jesus, keeping God in our hearts and our neighbor in our lives.”  He challenged Catholics to be faithful as Mary was faithful.

As we take to heart these words of Our Holy Father, we also note that this Sunday we celebrate the great feast of the Epiphany of the Lord.  We remember the wise men, who faced many obstacles on their journey of faith to encounter Christ, and how they persevered in their journey. Like the wise men, we are challenged to persevere on our journey of faith, despite the obstacles which we may encounter.  As mentioned previously, as we strive for perseverance, Pope Francis has challenged us, as Catholics, to be a more integral part of the Church.  He spoke of the bond of unity and sharing that should mark the lives of all Christians on their spiritual journey.  We can support each other, encourage each other, work with each other, and pray for each other on the way.  As we celebrate the Epiphany, as disciples, we can lift each other up spiritually as we reaffirm our commitment to strive to give honor and glory to the Lord who loves us.

Pope Francis stated that the wise men who came from afar speak of the universality of the Christian message which is for all people.  He reminded us that the Church wants all people of faith to encounter Jesus and to experience His merciful love.

As we begin this New Year, and as we reflect on the Solemnity of Mary and the feast of the Epiphany, we are invited to heed the words of Pope Francis and truly strive to set aside the many distractions in our lives and embrace a more spiritual focus as we continue on our journey of faith.

This Sunday we celebrate the feast of the Holy Family, the family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.  Our Holy Father Pope Francis has a great appreciation for the family unit.  He stressed the need for the presence of God in the family and has called the family “the leaven of society.”  Pope Francis has challenged us to strive for spiritual unity and for the strengthening of families by following the example of the Holy Family.  He urged families to always live in faith and simplicity like the Holy Family of Nazareth.  In a homily on the feast of the Holy Family, he stated, “Let us not lose confidence in the family! …To all of you, dear families, I entrust the most important mission – the domestic pilgrimage of daily family life – which the world and the Church need, now more than ever.”

The following “Prayer to the Holy Family” provided by the media outlet “Pray Catholic” reflects the sentiments of Our Holy Father:

Dear Lord,  bless our family.  Be so kind as to give us the unity, peace, and mutual love that you found in your own family in the town of Nazareth.

Saint Joseph, pray for the head of our family.  Obtain for him the strength, the wisdom, and the prudence he needs to support and direct those under his care.

Mother Mary, pray for the mother of our family.  Help her to be pure and kind, gentle and self-sacrificing.  For the more she resembles you, the better will our family be.

Lord Jesus, bless the children of our family.  Help them to be obedient and devoted to their parents.  Make them more and more like you.  Let them grow, as you did, in wisdom and strength and grace before God and man.

Holy Family of Nazareth, by your intercession, love, and holy example, make our family and home more and more like yours, until we are all one family, happy and at peace in our true home with you.      Amen.

As we reflect on this prayer, and as we consider the words of Our Holy Father, we are invited to strive to keep our family spiritually united, and we are encouraged to pray daily as a family.  We can take a brief pause from the busyness of the world and the busyness of our lives and make time to pray.  It may be before meals, or it may be at a certain time in the day.  It may require some discipline and structure but hopefully, it will be spiritually beneficial.

May Our Lord continue to bless and guide you and your family as we celebrate this great feast day, and as we get ready to begin the New Year.

My brothers and sisters in Christ:  At Christmas, Christ comes into the world and into our lives as a sign of the love God has for us.  The Christmas Season should be a time of prayer and reflection, wonder and silence as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Light of the world.  In a Christmas message, Pope Francis spoke about this need to focus on silence.  He stated, “Christmas is preferring the silent voice of God to the noisiness of consumerism.  If we can be silent in front of the crib, Christmas will be a surprise even for us, not something seen before.”  He reminded the faithful that we will celebrate Christmas well, “if, like Joseph, we will give space to silence, if, like Mary, we say ‘here I am’ to God, if, like Jesus, we will be close to those who are alone, if, like the shepherds, we will leave our enclosures to be with Jesus.”

As we reflect on these profound insights of Our Holy Father, we are invited to take to heart these words taken from Psalm 46: “…Be still and know that I am God, exalted among all nations, exalted in the earth.”  At this special time of the year, may we truly be still and hear His voice in the silence of our hearts, and allow the light of His Son to shine through the darkness of our world and the darkness of our lives.  My prayer for all of us is that in the midst of the darkness of this world we will have the wisdom to embrace the spiritual peace that Jesus offers us.  As a community of faith, may we truly experience the joy and love of the Lord this Christmas as we continue to strive for peace in our world, peace in our homes, and peace in our hearts.

As we celebrate the birthday of Christ, I want to thank you for all you do to enhance the spiritual vitality of our parish.  I am deeply grateful for your willingness to embrace a spirit of generosity which, in so many ways, has enriched and strengthened our many programs, ministries, and activities, and has greatly fostered vocations to the priesthood, diaconate, and religious life.

On behalf of Fr. Bill, Fr. Michael, our Deacons, and staff, I wish you and your loved ones a blessed Christmas and a happy, healthy, and holy New Year.  May you experience the wonder of the Lord’s peace and joy in many profound and mysterious ways.

It is a privilege to serve you and our faith community.

 

We celebrate Gaudete (Rejoice) Sunday on this Third Sunday of Advent as we wait in joyful anticipation of the coming of the Christ Child.  In our Sunday gospels during Advent, the call to prepare for Christ comes primarily from John the Baptist.  He, in essence, tells us to prepare the way of the Lord, acknowledge our shortcomings and failures, repent of our sins, and change our hearts.  However, we can be preoccupied with shopping, and parties, and travel plans which can easily distract us from focusing on this important message.  Distractions can be very real and very powerful and were recently addressed by Pope Francis.

The media outlet “Catholic News Service” reported that in a gathering with Vatican employees Pope Francis asked, “will people go to adore and be amazed by Jesus, or will they let themselves be detoured by distractions?”  As a way to avoid distractions, he invited the faithful to focus on the call to holiness.  He stated that one sign of holiness is being able to “be astonished, to feel the wonder before God’s gifts, his ‘surprises.’  And the greatest gift, the ever-new surprise is Jesus.”  He also reminded the people that Mary and Joseph were “overflowing with holiness and, therefore, with joy” as they gazed at the Christ Child in the manger.  He stated, “We are not afraid of holiness.  I can tell you it is the path to joy.”

As we reflect on these profound words of Our Holy Father, and as we strive to prepare spiritually for the coming of the Lord, we are reminded that this Wednesday, December 18th at 9:00 am, we will celebrate a memorial Mass for our beloved former pastor, Monsignor Paul Reynolds.  He shepherded his congregation at Saint Brigid from 2006 until his death in 2010.  He was a priest of great wisdom and insight and joy and truly appreciated the opportunity to serve the people entrusted to his care.

As we reflect on the memory of Monsignor Reynolds and the example of John the Baptist, we know the Lord is ready to come to us.  Are we willing to avoid the distractions of the season which can easily overwhelm us?  Are we focused on parties, shopping, and travel plans or are we ready to open our hearts to receive the Christ Child in a spirit of holiness, in a spirit of joy?  As we continue in this Advent Season, we are invited to do brief Advent scripture readings and reflections each day to better prepare ourselves to receive Our Lord, Our Savior, and Our King of Kings.

 

Our Advent Season continues as we strive to remain watchful and alert as we prepare for the coming of the Lord. This past week we sponsored our Advent Parish Mission and it was pleasing to see so many of our parishioners and friends in attendance.  The focus by our presenter, Fr. Francis Reque, on Saint Joseph, and his important role in bringing about the gift of the Christ Child that awaits us, helped many to more fully embrace the true spirit of Advent.

This spirit continues as we honor our Mother Mary in special ways this month.  This Monday we celebrate the feast of the Immaculate Conception and affirm our belief that Mary was blessed among women and was preserved from original sin from the moment of her conception.  Pope Francis, reflecting on the feast of the Immaculate Conception, stated, “Today, we look at the beauty of Our Lady, who was born and lived without sin, always docile and transparent with God.  This does not mean that life was easy for her.”  He encouraged Catholics to imitate Mary’s deep trust and openness to God as they encounter the difficulties and challenges of everyday life.

We again honor Mary our Mother this coming Thursday when we celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.  She is the patroness of the United States, Mexico and all of the Americas, as well as the protector of the unborn.  As mentioned in the past, she is a religious as well as a cultural figure to the people of Mexico. In 1531, she appeared in a vision to a humble peasant farmer named Juan Diego near Mexico City.  The appearance of Our Lady of Guadalupe helped generate the conversion of Mexico and Latin America to Catholicism.  Her feast is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm throughout the Americas.  Pope Francis, reflecting on the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, stated, “…like Juan Diego, we know that here is our Mother.  We know that we are under her shadow and protection, which is the source of joy, and that we are in the cross of her arms.”

As we focus on these two great feasts of Mary, we are encouraged to avail ourselves of the Sacrament of Reconciliation during the Season of Advent.  Please be aware that we will have additional priests at appropriate times to assist us during the Season.  The Sacrament is here to heal us spiritually and get us closer to the Lord who loves us.  Please check the parish bulletin or the parish website for the times for the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Our Church leaders invite us to maintain a strong spiritual focus during our Advent journey.  We are challenged through prayer and works of charity and the Sacrament of Reconciliation to truly prepare ourselves for the coming of the Christ Child.

This Sunday begins the Season of Advent.  It is a special time in the Church year as we prepare for the coming of the Lord.  Advent holds out the hope and desire to see the light of Christ shine through the darkness of our world. As reported in the publication, “The Catholic World Report”, in an Advent message, Pope Francis focused on the invitation of John the Baptist and reminded us that Advent requires a “journey of conversion.” He stated, “To prepare the way for the Lord who comes, it is necessary to take into account the demands of conversion.” This requires a change in attitude and “…leads to humbly recognizing our mistakes, our infidelities, and defaults.” Our Holy Father suggested that each person asks, “How can I change something in my attitude to prepare the way of the Lord?”

As we reflect on these words of Our Holy Father, and as we begin our Advent Season, we are pleased to sponsor an Advent Parish Mission presented by Fr. Francis Reque of the Order of Saint Benedict.  Fr. Francis is an experienced mission leader and spiritual director from Saint Bernard Abbey in Cullman, Alabama.  A Parish Mission can be viewed as an opportunity for spiritual reflection and conversion. It also can provide an opportunity to change hearts and transform lives as we renew and strengthen our relationship with Our Lord.

At this special time, we are urged to remain watchful and vigilant as we wait in joyful anticipation for the coming of the Lord.  This Christmas we are invited to give the Lord the gift of a pure heart by being spiritually prepared for His coming.  Fr. Francis stated that during the Mission he will focus on “the theological virtues of faith, hope, and love as revealed by Saint Joseph in the Gospel of Matthew.”  This focus hopefully will shed light on the important role of Saint Joseph in bringing about the gift of the Christ Child that awaits us. There will be time for prayer and reflection.  The message of Father Francis should resonate with all people of goodwill including families, young adults, and teens.

We invite you to come to this Mission.  Please invite your friends, especially those Catholics who may have been away from the Church for some time and for some reason.  Through God’s grace, you may be instrumental in getting your friends to return to the precious faith we love and cherish.

The Advent Mission will take place this Monday, December 2nd to Wednesday, December 4th.  There will be both morning and evening sessions for your convenience.  Details concerning the Mission can be obtained from the Parish bulletin and website as well as from the Parish office.  We invite you to participate in the Parish Mission and avail yourself of this special time of grace.

 

This Sunday we celebrate the feast of Christ the King as we approach the end of the liturgical year of our Church.  We remember in a special way what Christ means to us, and what Christ did for us, and that we are called to serve the King of Kings.  This coming Thursday, we also celebrate Thanksgiving Day, and we are encouraged to give thanks for the many blessings that the Lord has bestowed on us.  We are reminded to strive to not permit ourselves to get distracted by any shopping frenzies, but rather truly take time to reaffirm our commitment to make Thanksgiving Day a day for Our Lord, family and friends.  As in the past, we pray that Thanksgiving Day will not be commercialized and truly will be a time for family and friends to get together to thank God for prayers answered and blessings received.

The following “Thanksgiving Table Prayer” from “Celebrating Faith: Year-round Activities for Catholic Families” by Mary Crock Farrell reflects the spirit of this special day:

O Gracious God, we give you thanks for your overflowing generosity to us.
Thank you for the blessing of the food we eat and  especially for this feast today.
Thank you for our home and family and friends, especially for the presence of those gathered here.
Thank you for our health, our work and our play.
Please send help to those who are hungry, alone, sick and suffering war and violence.
Open our hearts to your love.  We ask your blessing through Christ your Son.  Amen.

As we reflect on this prayer, our bishops suggest that beginning Monday, the days before Thanksgiving be set aside for deeds of charity, for penance, and for prayers for economic justice.  We are reminded once again that the word “Eucharist” means “giving thanks” and the Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith.  Our Church leaders encourage us to remember that the Lord establishes a special bond with His community through the Eucharistic meal.  It is the nourishment that fuels and sustains the spiritual vitality of our wonderful faith community.  We can thank the Lord for the gift of our precious faith and for the opportunity to bond with each other by nourishing together on the Bread of Life.  We can also thank Him for the opportunity to then go forth in loving service of our brothers and sisters, especially our brothers and sisters in need at this time of the year.  Serving others helps us appreciate all that the Lord has given to us.

On behalf of the clergy and staff at Saint Brigid, I give thanks for our Saint Brigid faith community and I pray that your Thanksgiving Day will be a blessed one.

Periodically we sponsor a “Newcomers Social” and invite all those who are new to the Parish to join us for an evening of food and fellowship at the Parish rectory.  The gathering is a way to welcome newcomers into our faith community.  Those who have recently joined our community are invited to meet our priests and deacons, and some of the lay leaders of our Parish.  In attendance we have representatives of our Welcoming Committee, the Men of Saint Brigid, the Moms Group, the Circle of Sisters, the Knights of Columbus, the Pastoral Council, and also coordinators of certain other Parish ministries and programs.

During the course of the evening, our clergy and coordinators interact with our newcomers, informing them of various Parish activities, events and opportunities.  Many of our newcomers are not familiar with this geographical area, and so we discuss opportunities, concerns and challenges in relocating to this local environment.  Our coordinators answer questions and address any concerns our newcomers may have.  They also speak to those who are new about their own experiences when they first joined our faith community.
While being sensitive to family, employment, education and other concerns and challenges, they encourage our newcomers to become active members of our Parish family and do their part to enhance the spiritual vitality of our Saint Brigid faith community.

This past Friday we had our latest “Newcomers Social.”  Many of our newcomers appreciated the opportunity to engage in a time for food and fellowship.  The pictures provided taken at a prior gathering provide a sense of this spirit-filled event.

Our clergy and lay leaders encourage you to invite your neighbors and friends to prayerfully consider becoming members of our Saint Brigid faith community.

This coming Monday we celebrate Veterans Day.  At this time we remember in a special way our men and women who served in the military and who sacrificed so much through their dedicated commitment to our country.   The Johns Creek Memorial Walk, located in Newtown Park, serves as a vivid and sobering reminder of the contributions to the defense of our nation made by our men and women in the armed forces throughout the years.  Members of the Saint Brigid Knights of Columbus, many of whom are Veterans, assisted in the construction of the Memorial Walk.

The following prayer called “TO BE REWARDED” by Bob Hostetler was published by the media outlet “Guideposts”, and asks Our Heavenly Father to bless and reward our Veterans for their faithful service:

Father, please turn your gaze to these men and women who in their military service have sacrificed time, comfort, strength, ambition, health and prosperity for the peace and safety of family and friends and others they’ve never even known.

Please reward them a hundredfold for all their sacrifice and service.  Bless them far beyond all their expectations.  Reward them richly for all they have given.  Amen.

As we reflect on this prayer, we should also remember the great sacrifices made by military chaplains who are Veterans and who have faithfully served the spiritual needs of our men and women in the armed forces and their families.  Our Holy Father Pope Francis has a great appreciation for military chaplains.  In an address to priests preparing to assume duties as military chaplains, he stated, “The role of the military chaplain is to accompany and support (men and women) in their journey, being for all of them a consoling and fraternal presence.  You can pour on the wounds of these persons the balm of the Word of God, which alleviates the pains and infuses hope; and you can offer them the grace of the Eucharist and of Reconciliation, which nourish and regenerate the afflicted soul.”

As we consider these profound words of Pope Francis, we are reminded that many of us know priests who have served as military chaplains.  We also have loved ones who have served our country well and now have Veteran status.  Whether our Veterans served at home or abroad, we should not allow their service to be ignored or minimized, or their sacrifice is taken for granted.

We are encouraged to assure our chaplains, family members, relatives, friends and neighbors who have unselfishly served our nation in the armed forces of our gratitude and our respect.  As citizens of this nation, we truly appreciate their service.

Later this month Bishop Joel Konzen will administer the Sacrament of Confirmation to approximately two hundred of our teens.  Confirmation along with Baptism and the Holy Eucharist comprise the sacraments of Christian initiation.  Our Catechism states, “Confirmation completes the grace of Baptism by a special outpouring of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, which seal or ‘confirm’ the baptized in union with Christ and equip them for active participation in the worship and apostolic life of the Church.”

Those who will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation spend much time in instruction, reflection, and prayer. Their preparation also includes time for the Sacrament of Reconciliation and for a spiritual retreat.  Our Catechism reminds the faithful of the need for proper preparation for the sacrament. It indicates, “Preparation for Confirmation should aim at leading the Christian toward a more intimate union with Christ and a more lively familiarity with the Holy Spirit – His actions, His gifts, and responsibilities of Christian life.  To this end catechesis for Confirmation should strive to awaken a sense of belonging to the Church of Jesus Christ, the universal Church as well as the parish community.”

Pope Francis has often spoken about the importance of the Sacrament of Confirmation in our spiritual journey.  He stated, “Just as Jesus received the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at His baptism in order to carry out His messianic mission, the Church prays that we too may receive the gifts and fruits of the Spirit that enable the Body of Christ grow in unity and missionary zeal.  The gift of the Spirit is communicated through the laying on of hands and anointing with sacred chrism.”  During Confirmation he explained that “through the sacramental sign of anointing with sacred chrism, we receive the gift of the Holy Spirit in order to be more closely conformed to Christ, God’s ‘anointed one’.”  He also reminded the faithful that Confirmation “strengthens our relationship with the Church and gives it a special strength from the Holy Spirit to defend the faith and confess the name of Christ.”

Candidates for Confirmation are asked to select the name of a saint as their Confirmation name.  The saint can serve as an example of Christian living.  They also receive the spiritual guidance and dedicated support of a sponsor.  As we know all too well there are many temptations and distractions in this world that can lead us astray.  Please continue to pray for these young men and women as they get ready to receive this great sacrament and continue on their journey of faith.

October has been designated as Respect Life Month by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.  The Respect Life Program stresses the value and dignity of all human life.  It is observed in Catholic dioceses throughout the United States.  According to the Office of Family Life, the month of October is dedicated to ‘increasing a greater culture of life through the areas of public information and education, pastoral care, public policy, and prayer.”

As part of our Respect Life outreach at Saint Brigid, we continue to sponsor a foster care and adoption initiative called “Fostering Love“, that strives to offer loving and practical support to fostering and adopting families in our community.  One of the goals of the initiative is to build “Care Communities” of volunteers who will provide crucial support such as meals, clothing, supplies, or childcare to fostering and adopting families.

As previously noted, as Christians, we should be aware of the reality that some women who conceive a child may not be prepared physically or emotionally to raise and nurture that child.  Parents who adopt a child or provide foster care may be in a better position than the birth mother to raise and nurture that child.  They may be able to provide a loving environment for the child and may have a viable and strong support system to assist them.

Some of our parishioners have chosen to adopt children or provide foster care.  They have done so after careful thought and prayer, and have embraced the related blessings, opportunities and challenges.   However, most of us are not in a position to adopt a child or provide foster care, but most of us are in a position to enhance adoption and foster care awareness.  We may be able to provide spiritual, emotional, or financial support to those involved.  Adoption and foster care are ways we can demonstrate our concern for the sanctity of life.

An appreciation for adoption and foster care is reflected in the following “ADOPTION PRAYER” provided by the organization “beliefnet”:

Father of the fatherless, you give your children a home in which to dwell;
and like a loving mother you gather us into your household.
We give you thanks for the child who has come to bless this family
and for the parents who have taken this child to be their own.
By the power of your Holy Spirit, fill these parents with trust, understanding and affection;
and, through this child in our midst,
enable us better to know the mystery that we are all Your children by adoption;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Thank you for all you do to support and embrace the sanctity of life.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (2364), states that the married couple forms “the intimate partnership of life and love established by the Creator and governed by his laws.”  It further states, “Both give themselves definitively and totally to one another.  They are no longer two; from now on they form one flesh.  The covenant they freely contracted imposes on the spouses the obligation to preserve it as unique and indissoluble.  What God has joined together, let not man put asunder.”

As we know, Matrimony is one of our seven sacraments.  Last weekend, we celebrated a special Mass at Saint Brigid honoring those couples in the Archdiocese of Atlanta celebrating the 50th or 60th anniversary of their marriage.  Archbishop Gregory, while serving as the Archbishop of Atlanta, began a tradition of bringing couples together for an annual celebration.  As previously indicated, he stated in an article in the Georgia Bulletin, “Remarkable moments deserve a special pause to praise God for His goodness and to celebrate the accomplishments of people’s fidelity to the promise made in their youth and then lived faithfully over a lifetime.”

Archbishop Gregory also stated, “It is increasingly important to hold up those folks who have lived their vocational commitments – certainly not without mistakes, challenges, and failures – but with fidelity and steadfastness.  We all know many wonderful people whose marriages or religious promises have not endured.  And we love them nonetheless.  However, in our society, we also must hold up examples of people who have succeeded in fulfilling their commitments.”  The Archbishop reminded us that, “Marriage and religious vows are relationships that are intended to mirror and witness to God’s perfect fidelity and enduring love.  May all who live their vocational promises find the grace to be faithful and courageous as they provide a splendid counter-statement to the values that our society promotes and offers to the world.”

The following prayer from the “Blessings and Prayers for Home and Family” provided by the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops asks the Lord to continue to bless a couple celebrating      50 years of marriage.  It could be applicable to one of our family members, friends or fellow parishioners:

Blessed are you, Lord, loving God of all creation:
You have made us your beloved and have showered gifts upon us.
Continue to fill their hearts with love for You and for each other.
Bless them, their children and grandchildren and all their relatives and friends.
Lead us all through this life to eternal happiness with You.
We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

As we reflect on this prayer, we honor those couples celebrating their 50th or 60th wedding anniversary for their faithfulness to God and for their faithfulness to each other.  They set a great example for all of us.