May 28, 2023

Today we celebrate the Feast of Pentecost. Today we ask that the original Spirit that descended on the Apostles in the Upper Room in Jerusalem come once again and empower us with the flame of faith to be bold disciples of the Gospel. Today we ask that the Lord, “Send out Your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.” On this day the Spirit breathed new life into disheartened disciples. We need that same Holy Breath today! And here’s why! Today throughout the Archdiocese of St. Louis Archbishop Rozanski will unveil the All Things New Final Plan for our parishes. At all masses, pastor’s will read the official decree for their respective planning models. The decree was emailed to pastors after Noon today, (Saturday). We will also announce the name of the new pastor for our particular pastorate. As I am writing this column I have no more information to share, other than that neither I, nor Msgr. Hanneke will serve as pastor of the new pastorate. There will be a lot to take in, and I ask you to do so with an open heart. Our future depends on us being open to the working of the Holy Spirit to bring us to a more fervent intentional discipleship, ready to move forward with hope and steadfast faith. All Things New will challenge us, but will also be a new opportunity for all of us. Next weekend the official decree will be posted on the parish website and in the bulletin. Then, for the next 8 weeks we will begin the important transitioning, from what has been to what will be. It will be a time to celebrate our past, to mourn our loss and grieve our sadness, but also to prepare for a new reality. The process of All Things New will continue over the next 1-3 years as changes are discerned and implemented. May the Holy Spirit of God be with us!

On Monday, we will be celebrating Memorial Day with our traditional Mass on the Grass on McMahon Field at 9:00am. (weather permitting). Just after the public announcement of All Things New, it will be an opportunity for us to join not only with our sister parish, Immaculate Conception, but also with parishioners from Our Lady of Lourdes, our potential partners as we move forward. Please bring a lawn chair and join us.

Finally today, I am praying for all my new brother priests, ordained this weekend at the Cathedral Basilica. Join me in praying for them as they begin their first assignments that they will find a welcoming community and a good first pastor who will mentor them.

God Bless! Let the news seep in. Have a good week!

Please continue praying 3 Hail Marys. Fr. Pete