By Dr. Eduardo
A new School Year is about to start, so joy, expectations, goals and excitement is on the air. Installation Mass is a beautiful ceremony that speaks about the Church’s mission and vision. Archbishop Miller gets a chance to meet the Parish community and preside over it in faith, while the role of a Pastor is explained through words and ministry.
At the beginning of this mandate, a Biblical Passage from Luke’s Gospel comes to mind: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind and to set free those who are oppressed.” (Lk. 4:18)
I see it as a mission statement, as a reminder of the Pastor’s role. First of all, Pastors are ‘sent’ on a mission; not a personal one, but the Church’s. We bring the power of the Sacraments and a ministry of service, so that inspired by the Gospels the poor and abandoned are always the priority of her mission. The Church’s message is one of joy and hope. It is a good news that proclaims liberty, grace and breaking of chains.
Let me, then, motivate you to embark as a community on this faith adventure. Catechesis Programs will soon start. May faith be molded in our children’s minds and hearts. Parish groups will continue to meet: may they grow in number and in deeds of charity. Celebrating the Sacraments is a sure way of nurturing our souls, hearing God’s Word in liturgical contexts and allowing it to brightly shine in our lives. Through Parish activities, may we build a sense of community, mutual trust and support so that God’s image is always respected and honored.
With God’s grace, I really wish to be a loving father, a gentle shepherd and a wise teacher to all.
United in prayer, I sign.
Fr. Eduardo
