It is said that out of a difficult experience, great things emerge. I have been learning a lot during this pandemic. As difficult as it has been, it has enriched my soul. I hope it has done the same for you.
A couple of weeks ago, I asked if you could share with me or with your friends and family how COVID -19 has enriched your soul or how you have been living it? Any new lessons? How has it been for your family?
20 years from now when people ask us how we lived through the pandemic, what will we say? These are some responses Bishop Bolen got from the people.
(Continued from two weeks ago)
I have found the responses very enriching. I’ll share some with us every week.
20 years from now, we will say to those who ask us how we lived this time:
(The first 2 quotes can be found in the Pastor’s Message of the June 7th bulletin)
- It was a time when individuals and societies hit the reset button, when families and communities reset priorities and gave time to what really matters.
- It was a time when the frantic pace of our lives was halted. We released our grips from the things of the world and hold on to the beauty of life.
- Our lives became less cluttered and we had more connection with God and with each other.
- We learned again what it means to be a Christian and the dignity and wonder of each human life. We remembered what is truly valuable – worthy of our energy and life.
The Gift of Fatherhood!
Fatherhood is a special gift to the world! Every father mirrors the fatherhood of God. Today, we give thanks to God for the gift of our fathers!
To all the fathers in our parish, know that today and always, you are thought of and wished much happiness as you strive each day to be a father after God’s own heart.
May Jesus bless your families and keep you all in His grace and love! We love you. Happy Father’s Day!
Bishop Bittman will be at St. John Vianney for the 11am Mass. We invited him to celebrate also the 9am Mass at St. Ann but he won’t be able to come for that because he is already committed to celebrate 9am Mass at ICC in Kelowna. As our Shepherd in the diocese, please wish him Happy Father’s Day after Mass. Even if you are not registered for 11am Mass and you have time to come by after Mass (11:45am) to greet him and wish him Happy Father’s Day, that will be wonderful. He’ll be at the door with social distancing measures in place.
Your brother,
~ Fr. Obi