Renewed Youthfulness of Spirit

Dear Friend,

Here are the opening words of our opening prayer (Collect) for this Sunday: 

“May your people exult forever, O God, in renewed youthfulness of spirit…”.  If we can all say AMEN to that, we’re indeed off and running in the spirit of Easter!  

At the Easter Vigil two weeks ago, with Robyn’s baptism and the confirmations that followed, we got a glimpse of what youthfulness of spirit looks like, especially with Pedro and Mercedes holding their new-born in their arms all through the celebration! Pedro and Mercedes, along with their companions Michael, Robyn, Lane, Matt, and Jennifer, were anointed with the holy chrism, their initiation into the community “sealed” with the very Spirit that hovered over the face of the waters at the dawn of creation. On behalf of the parish, I thank those who walked the journey with them as sponsors, showing support and encouragement. Michael Rubio and Phil Phillips were their guiding catechists, and the parish community owes them a great thank you, as well.

The great Triduum liturgies were, as always, a combined effort and I feel so humbled and grateful as I think back on all the work done by our musicians, sacristans, liturgical environment team, our ushers (so patiently minding the weather reports!), lectors, altar servers, and eucharistic ministers. So many details so carefully attended to, with Father Henri and all my fellow friars generously assisting, coordinating, presiding and preaching. 

The teamwork continued this last week at the 11AM Mass with the confirmation class of 2024 stepping up to serve as lectors, altar servers, prayer leaders, ushers, and after Mass, as hosts of coffee and donuts. Thanks again to all who made that celebration so meaningful. Onward now – in renewed youthfulness of spirit! 

Gratefully,

Father Dan ofm