Dear Fellow Parishioners, Whenever a vacation was approaching, the Rector of the Seminary would remind us, “Remember, there is never a vacation from your vocation!” This emphasized that our vocation was not only preparing for the priesthood but being disciples of Jesus Christ. I have always kept that in mind, and so when traveling I bring my breviary (Prayer book) and rosary with me and take time to pray each morning and evening when I travel. Part of my daily prayer is to pray for the sick that are listed in the bulletin. Praying for people twice a day is important for them and for me. While on the cruise there was a large group of Orthodox Jews who had their own dining room that served Kosher foods. I was impressed at how open the men were about their faith, wearing their yarmulkes, and tallit (prayer shawl). They were not afraid to take the time to pray wherever we were on our journey, including excursions. Many of us have had a relaxing summer and traveled to close and distant vacation sites. I forgot to remind everyone to bring back the bulletin from the parishes you were visiting. Some of the older folks remember to do so, but as I age, I guess I forgot to remind everyone before the summer began. School will be starting next week (I know some have already begun) we will offer a special blessing for all those who are returning to campus in various capacities. Due to vacation, and summer schedules maybe our high school aged youth were not aware that there are two youth positions on our Pastoral Planning Team open for one-year terms. Right now, no one has been nominated. This is a wonderful opportunity to view first had how our parish operates and have a voice at the table. We have always had youth representatives on PPT, I am hoping that this will continue. “There is never a vacation from your vocation!” We are all called as Disciples of Jesus Christ to make the world the place God says it ought to be even when we are taking time to be refreshed and renewed. Welcome back everyone! Let’s continue our faith journey strengthening our discipleship!