Greetings from Fr. Dave

Last weekend in his homily Brett spoke about the words from Jesus’ baptism: “This is my beloved son; listen to him.” These words are the foundation of our own relationship with God, and in our baptism we are directly invited into the “family” of the divine Trinity. Our new identity is all about being sisters and brothers of Jesus, and being adopted into our Heavenly Father’s family. That my friends is HUGE.
 
These words capture part of what that can mean for us. I encourage you take a few moments and sit with them, allowing their truth to permeate deep within your heart.

Welcome home!
I’ll keep you safe.
Let me hold you.
Let me heal you.
I have so much for you.
Trust me.
I am not mad at you.
I will never leave you.
My grace will never run out.
Stay with me.

And, our Gospel this week puts another dimension on all of this, when John the Baptist declares “Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.” We use those very words at Mass just prior to receiving Holy Communion, recognizing the profound truth of our NEED for Jesus. He alone can heal our propensity for radical self-centeredness, buying into the deception that the world revolves around me, I am in control, my life is my own, we are independent.
 
Contrast that with the deeper truth: We came from God; We belong to God; Our destiny is God. Jesus is the sacrificial lamb who makes it possible for us to be drawn into union with God. Our response at Mass is fitting: “Lord I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and I shall be healed.” Correct, we are never worthy, and true, He has said the “word” and He does heal us! Praise be to God.
 
Looking forward, we have a parish morning of retreat coming up on Saturday, March 14 ^th. Our speakers will be three highly accomplished athletes, all devoutly Catholic: Galen Rupp, Laura Thiebes, and Alberto Salazar. Each of them will speak about how their faith in God has shaped their successes and helped them through tough times. They have powerful stories to share! This will be “family friendly” and I want to extend a special invitation to our youth to participate as well, especially those involved in sports.
 
Blessings to Ella and Lucia Acosta, Ada Clifton, Vivian Sharp, and Cayleigh Susi, who were baptized this weekend!
 
Funeral services are scheduled for Arman Salessi for Monday, January 20 ^th at 11:00am. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed, rest in peace.