HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!
Last Saturday Fr. Johnathan Turba, O. Praem., was ordained to the priesthood at St. Norbert Abbey. Many of you remember Johnathan who ministered here a few years ago. He helped in our program of Faith Formation, with our youth, and the ministry of music. One of my favorite memories of Johnathan during that time was when he led the children who sang on the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. He had helped them prepare and then accompanied them on the piano that day. I can see him playing the piano, encouraging the children with his eyes, his smile, and his whole body. They sang beautifully and enthusiastically.

Johnathan will be the Vocation Coordinator for St. Norbert Abbey. As we pray for each other that we may live our Christian vocations with success, please pray for Johnathan as he informs invites, and counsels men about the vocation to Norbertine life as a priest or brother. We expect that he will come to celebrate Mass with us here in both English and Spanish. In fact, he is scheduled to preside on Saturday, June 25, at 4:30 p.m., and on Sunday, June 26 at 10:45 a.m. He will be prepared to speak with your sons, daughters, and grandchildren, etc. about their questions about ministry in the Church and the various life options they have as Catholics.

So, here is a question: have you encouraged your son or daughter to consider giving their life in ministry in the Church as a priest, brother, or religious sister? Please think about it. We need intelligent, faith-filled, lovers of others to serve in our communities of faith and in the world. Suggesting this particular way of life to a child or adolescent does not force them to pursue it. We need people to be good decision-makers who have thoroughly considered their options. How will this man or this woman lovingly serve God’s people? Will they serve through priesthood, religious life, committed single life or marriage?

This summer as always we will celebrate several marriages of both the young and not so young. Catholic marriage is another vocation we must encourage and support. Marriage is not only a choice that two people make for each other, but it is also an offering they make to the whole community of faith. They are committing to the sharing of their love for one another with others. Marriage is not their possession, but a way through which they serve the People of God. Their love comes from God. Their children come from God. Whatever God has given to us must be shared! Let us pray for the newly married and the long-time married to be generous in sharing the gift of love, which is their vocation.

Peace, Fr. Andy