August has arrived, and the summer schedule is still in full swing with many wonderful events to celebrate. Three weddings are on tap, several baptisms, the feast of the Assumption; but most importantly our first Vacation Bible School.
Tara Corcoran and the team are all set to go, and they are so excited to welcome the 27 children who are signed up for the weeklong event. I have wanted us to do vacation Bible school for many years, but we never had anyone to put the needed effort into getting it in place. Having Tara on board, focused on faith formation for young people strengthens the offerings we can present to young families, assisting them in deepening their relationship with Jesus Christ.
This weekend we are strengthening our faith formation efforts with our Junior High and High School aged parishioners and their families as Lee Maleno takes the helm as our youth minister. Pam shared with you her responsibilities and we are excited to give focused attention to those of our parish community who are transitioning from youth to adulthood. As a former Director of Youth Ministry for our Diocese, I know how important it is for us to walk with adolescents during this challenging life-cycle. The need for community, support, affirmation, and deepening a relationship with God can assist our adolescent and their families in the many bumps in the road, questions, and decisions that are part of adolescent growth and development. Pam will continue to focus on our faith formation efforts for adults and their small groups, our homily series, and ministry of welcome to all who join our parish community.
Our ability to enhance our faith formation offerings is all made possible due to the generosity of all who contribute to our parish on a regular basis. As our mission statement makes clear, together we are “Becoming and Making Disciples, Welcoming All to Follow Jesus Christ!” With focused efforts with on life-long learning we are doing exactly what Jesus calls us, and all parishes to do, “Go out to all the world, and tell the good news!”
Yes, summer is in full swing, and our efforts to proclaim the gospel is too!