Same Mass, New Words
This year, on the First Sunday of Advent, we will begin using a new English Translation of the Roman Missal, the text which we use during Mass. While the whole Mass will not be different, a number of the responses will be changed. For example, starting in Advent when the priest says “The Lord be with You” the congregation will respond “And with your spirit.” In the weeks leading up to November 27thwhen the changes go into effect, there will be a bulletin insert each week explaining the new translation and the reasons for each of the changes. This weekend, Fr. Raymond and I will be touching on the changes in our homilies. We also hope to provide a couple of workshops on the new translation.
Change is not always easy, but it is the hope of our Holy Father Pope Benedict that these changes will be an opportunity for us to reflect more on the meaning of what we are saying and help us pray better.
And Off they Go…….let’s get together for two seconds after Mass
This week I received a couple of emails from our parishioners who are starting college. They seemed ready and anxious at the same time. That’s good. Please accompany our young people in prayer as they begin new jobs or a new life at college. Being 18 in our world today is a lot more complicated with a lot more pitfalls than it was when we were 18 (for many of us, decades ago). I know it will mean a lot to them if they know that they are being prayed for by the good people of St. Paul Church. I know many of you read this before Mass so…. I would ask any parents with a child in college to remain after Mass and meet me at the altar in the front of the Old Church for a couple of minutes.
The Parish Picnic is Next Week
Last year, the Parish Picnic exceeded my wildest dreams. It was a wonderful moment and a beautiful experience to see so many parishioners together enjoying each other’s company. When you think about it, there is no other experience like that during the whole year. I hope and pray that the weather is good and that as many as possible of you will plan to attend. There will be free food, great fun and fellowship. There will also be an opportunity for everyone to look at this year’s volunteer needs and see if you can help. Hope to see you there !!!
The Holy Water Fonts..
I know that several of you have contributed some money to cover the cost of the Holy Water Fonts. I have not forgotten you. The gentleman who did the first one seems to be away or gone out of business. We have called him several times to come out and give us an estimate. I promise you that we will respect your wish and continue to look for someone to refinish the fonts. Thanks for your patience.