Polls of all kinds seem to grab our interest, even if at times we disagree with the results.  We are all unlikely to change our preconceived opinions, whether we’re discussing dish detergents, movies, or the daily stock averages.  Yet we still listen for the poll results.  We want to know what other people think.  We either agree with or reject the results.

Now along comes this famous gospel passage from St. Matthew, which can be interpreted as Our Lord taking a poll of His disciples about His identity, in which He uses of Himself that enigmatic title “the Son of Man.”  The Apostles rattle off and answered the various accepted “labels” about Jesus formed from opinions of others. But Jesus’ query was: “Who do  YOU say I am?”.

Points for reflection emerge in my own mind.  First, what is my personal answer to Our Lord’s polling query, in the context of being a Catholic in our modern confused and broken society?  As a member of a Church with documented failures to fully reflect that kingdom even by our own hierarchy?  As a mature adult long removed from childhood images of Christ and long-frayed holy cards?

Second, what do I believe is Jesus’ analysis of us in all this?  That our charity has been confined to a narrow definition with an even more narrow perspective on our fellow human beings?  

Go ahead, reflect on your own answer to Jesus’ poll. Wherever this self-analysis might lead, the fact remains that we are very much loved by God.

Many of our young parishioners and their families are now busy for back to school preparations even while some are already back in their campuses. The pandemic offers new and difficult challenges to our students and their families. Critical decisions are to be made as whether in-person, online or hybrid; dormitories and housing arrangements; childcare; electronic essentials; financial challenges; and so on. It is not easy! As you make your decisions carry along with you our thoughts and prayers. As your parish family, we are one with you in the desire to educate and mold our young into responsible, moral, ethical and God-fearing positive members of our society. 

Our parish is lucky to have a school principal at Saint Ann School who really does his best to make our school safe upon return of our young children and at the same time still maintaining  to meet the goal of excellence in education. Please see his letter at the bottom and watch especially the video he had made for a better understanding and peace of mind of our students' parents and families.

Religious Education Program also is now open for enrollment. For the health and safety of our children, all classes will be conducted online. Our Religious Ed department has prepared an extensive, well rounded curriculum to educate our children in the practice of our faith. All children from grades 1-8 must be enrolled in our religious education program. We owe it to our children, as parents and as a parish, to educate and encourage them to know, understand and practice or Catholic Faith. If you are experiencing financial difficulties and would not be able to afford the tuition, kindly contact the Religious Ed Office, the parish can help.

Our RCIA Elect, Patrick Adams and Candidate, Nicholas Almey, have chosen the date for their reception of the Sacraments of Initiation and Profession of Faith, respectively. It is set on September 20th at 9:00 in the morning. This will be live-streamed so relatives, friends and parishioners can join them in this marvelous Sacramental Rite. We are excited for Pat and Nic in their full participation at the Table of the Lord with us.

Once again, thank you so much to Mary Malley who dedicated herself in this ministry for more than 21 years and also to her team, Aneka Bell, Karen Tenaglia and Jason Bannon for their assistances and dedicated services. Much as we appreciate their continued services, there is always an end to everything. The whole team is passing along the responsibility to Deacon Frank now who will act as the RCIA coordinator for this year 2020-2021. If there is anybody who is interested to help out in this ministry, please contact Deacon Frank in the RCIA update below.

There are more invitations at the bottom. Please take time to consider them for the growth of our spiritual life.

Please know also that Bishop David O’Connell invites us all to join him in praying the rosary daily and offer them for the many needs of our nation. Let us especially pray for the end of the pandemic. 

Lastly, allow me to continue to urge you to take extra health and safety precaution even as we enjoy the remaining days of summer. Wear mask properly, social distance and sanitize!

God Loves You!