From the corner office for Nov. 13, 2022

From the Corner Office is Father Mike’s weekly column.

The Thirty-Third Sunday of Ordinary Time continues to point us not only to the horizon – but even beyond the horizon. We could label this as “Apocalyptic” in its style or genre.

The First Reading from the Book of the Prophet Malachi speaks of how, “…the day is coming, blazing like an oven…” which leaves us wondering. When we pair this with Jesus speaking of the temple in a way when, “…the days will come when there will not be a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down.” This pales when we hear from St. Paul about the only people eating will be those who have worked for their food. Tough times, and very direct manners of speech… But, let’s not get too down before the final words of encouragement and hope that Jesus gives us. He tells us, “By your perseverance you will secure your lives.” Imagine, by your hope and hard work, you’ll make it through! Looking back at this past year, you might smirk and say to yourself, yes, I made it through – let’s get ready for next year.

Fr. Mike

From the Pastor’s Desk:

The “year-end reviews” are all starting as we keep battling the leaves and preparing for the colder/darker times of winter. I have to take time to thank all the volunteer gardeners and the maintenance staff, as I would say that we all were able to enjoy a summer of beautiful landscaping and colors. It is always a hope that the flowers, bushes, and trees lend themselves to a prayerful campus that shows the beauty of nature, as God’s gift to us all.

The next special fundraiser will be the #weGIVECATHOLIC event on November 29th, also known as “Giving Tuesday”. Following the Thanksgiving weekend and the “Official” start of the holiday season, this is an opportunity to help give back to the parish of St. Thomas More. Last year’s campaign helped us to start the updating and cleaning-up of the Utopia Hall area of the campus. We all have seen the tired and dated bathrooms, kitchen, and main hall. Concentrating these two years on the Utopia Hall area, will allow us to help an area where everyone enjoys. We will be hoping to push this year with a bit more advertising and (honestly) asking for your help. The repairs need to be completed, and this area of Utopia Hall is in much need of attention. PLEASE be sure to ask if you have any questions on how best to donate, as we are even going to be asking for prayers for a successful campaign. Together, we’ll all need to rise to the occasion, as the parish of St. Thomas More. Thank you for your help to our parish.