From the Pastor’s Deck

By Fr. Terry Kerner

I want to thank all of you for your prayers and support during my recovery from the scourge of COVID. Like so many of you who have been victims of it you wonder where it came from and how you got it. It has affected so many folks during these past few years and continues its effects in various ways. Truly it reminds all of us of our vulnerabilities as well as the appreciation we should have for our supportive family and friends.

The Family Faith Formation program for our elementary school age parishioners begins this Monday at St. Kateri. The program is for all students from St. Alphonsus-St. Clement, St. Maria Goretti, and St. Kateri. The classes are on Mondays and run from 5:30pm — 7:00 pm with the first hour concentrating on the teachings of our Faith and the last half-hour exploring various Catholic customs and practices. Everything from the use of holy water to the meaning of holy days will be taught to our young Catholics. Our Family of Parishes allows all our parishes to collaborate and bring forth the best of practices and resources. We are so very grateful for all who in previous years have contributed to the religious education of our children and who have laid the groundwork for the new program this year. Special thanks to the men and women who have volunteered to teach and share their faith with our young Catholics.

Adults who are interested in learning about the Catholic Faith and considering becoming Catholic or all-ready baptized but who have not received their Communion or Confirmation are welcome to attend the RCIA sessions on Mondays starting at 7:00 pm and also held at St. Kateri. The first session for the RCIA (convert class) is on October third. Give the parish office a call to sign up or, just show up! An adult should not be embarrassed if they have not received all their sacraments circumstances sometimes preclude the opportunity. Maybe this year is the time to include the opportunity!

Folks seem to be hungry! Certainly, the poor and needy do. But also, some parishioners who remember the St. Kateri’s dinners held in past years before the pandemic. What I remember the most is the “Harvest Dinner” of years past. There are others also that brought parishioners together for food and fellowship. If you would be interested in making plans for some get togethers, let me know and we will see what we can do!

Have a good week, pray for the children of our parishes.