Dear Fellow Parishioners, Our homily series The Vow is a journey through the Sacraments. It is important that from time to time we review the importance and meaning of the Sacraments as we are a Sacramental people. This week I am eager to listen to Deacon Tom preach about the Sacraments of Vocation and Service. Deacon Tom has received both Sacraments of Vocation: The Sacrament of Matrimony and Holy Orders. As we listen to him, I am sure that there are some of you who may be civilly married but may have not received the Sacrament of Matrimony. If that is the case and you and your spouse what to receive this Sacrament, let Deacon Tom or me know and we can walk with you through the steps of getting your Marriage blessed. At the same time, there may be some of you who feel called to the deaconate or the priesthood. The Office of the Diaconate educates men in service of the Liturgy, in service of the Word, and in service of the works of Charity. Married men between 31 and 60 are eligible for deaconate. Priesthood requires a commitment to celibacy (that means you cannot marry). In the Diocese of Worcester most priests minister in its 105 parishes and missions. Priests preach God's Word, teach God's ways and extend God's mercy to all whom they encounter.
If anyone who has been baptized Catholic but has not received First Eucharist or Confirmation and are interested in doing so, please talk with Deacon Tom or me. If you are not Catholic and would like to become Catholic, please let us know and we will assist you in enrolling in RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults.)
May our journey through the Sacraments encourage us all to take advantage of the grace of the sacraments and be aware of the teachings of the church regarding the sacraments.