Jesus Christ is Risen! Alleluia! He is Risen indeed! Alleluia!

      We celebrate Mother’s Day this Sunday in the United States, and in 33 other countries. And, in eleven other countries, including Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador, Mother’s Day was celebrated May 10. To all mothers therefore, we say: “Happy Mother’s Day! May God’s blessings be evident in your life!”

     Each of us remembers our mothers in different ways. Childhood memories, key events, and the intimacy of our relationship with our mother make this relationship an important one. Still, some mothers and daughters/sons do not have so many good memories and their relationship, if it can be called that, is strained or non-existent. For them we pray for reconciliation and peace. Mother’s Day may first be seen as a day of loving memory, but let us not forget those who wish for healing and forgiveness, etc.

     Other important days this month include the graduation day for some of our adult faith leaders. Our parish celebrates and honors graduates from the Emmaus Lay Ministry Formation program, and from the Apóstoles and Discípulos de Cristo programs. Congratulations to Ana, Juanita, and Roberto. We look forward to you sharing your ministries with your parish!

     Last Sunday we welcomed several children to the Sacrament of Eucharist as they received their First Communion. During Lent, these children also celebrated the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time. Later this month, during Memorial Day weekend, we will continue to celebrate First Communions with a special Saturday Mass and then several more at the Sunday Masses. For the sake of families and their schedules, we will have another big day of First Communions in June. Congratulations and blessings to all of the children!

     Finally, I know that you have heard announcements and seen the signs for St. Willy’s Jam, our parish picnic. I want to encourage you to be involved in some new way this year. Look for a way to help those who are organizing and running activities or food sales. Or, perhaps you can help with set up and clean up. We are always looking for nice prizes for our raffle. Maybe you know someone who runs a business who would be interested in making a donation. You can be the mediator of that request! Of course, your presence the day of St. Willy’s Jam is important as well. Bring a friend, too!

Jesus Christ is Risen! Alleluia! He is Risen indeed! Alleluia!

Peace, Fr. Andy