From the corner office for Aug. 21, 2022

From the corner office is Father Mike's weekly bulletin column.

The Twentieth-First Sunday of Ordinary Time has us continuing with the theme of perseverance. Do you notice the direct, yet indirect answer that Jesus gives us in this Gospel reading from Luke? There is never a strict yes/no or direct answer with Jesus. Now, remember this portion of Luke follows as Jesus is heading to Jerusalem. Jesus is laying it all out for us. The passage from the Book of Isaiah is very similar. The writer speaks of God gathering all those scattered by war and exile back to Jerusalem. This “frankness” echoes in the Letter of Hebrews, as St. Paul reminds us of the discipline and encourages us to “…strengthen your drooping hands and your weak knees.” Continue to work hard, stand firm, and persevere in your faith. Remember that the spiritual life is about our formation as Christians, growth in our relationships with God and others, and the change to mature in our spirituality. The question is, are we simply content or are we striving for the narrow gate?

Fr. Mike

From the Pastor’s Desk:

We are quickly moving into the last weeks of the summer break. The teachers and administrators are slowly preparing their rooms in the school, and the backpacks will be blessed soon. The Summer of Fun 2022 tour will be over soon… With the change of season, I am asking that as we move into the school year we realize the school students, parents, teachers, and staff will all need our prayers and support. We often talk about having the school of St. Thomas More as a ministry, and it is one that we will continue. The various options of support include our “Red Donation” envelopes at the doors. The use of these envelops guarantees that 100% of the donation stays here at St. Thomas More to help families in need – right here at STM.

When we review the 2021-22 financial numbers, you’ll be able to see more clearly where we stand as a parish. The cooler weather will also allow you to take-in the hard work here in the gardens, too. PLEASE be sure to thank any of the many volunteer gardeners or maintenance staff for keeping up with all of the work.