I have written here in recent months about how many funerals I do.  I see funerals as an opportunity to minister to the funeral, to let them know that we care and that God cares.  Being new in the parish, it is an opportunity for me to get to know the families a little and for them to see me.  It can also be a change to make those who don’t come to church feel welcomed so they might return.  However, regardless of these opportunities, funerals are generally a sad occasion because a loved one has died.

This week brought some opportunities to be part of happier moments in life.  Last Saturday, I met with four couples preparing for the baptism of their child for the required baptismal preparation session.  On Tuesday, I met individually with one of these couples who are among our newest parishioners who will have their child baptized sometime after their birth in November.  On Thursday, I met with a couple preparing for their wedding later this month.  Tomorrow (Sunday) at both the 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Mass, we will celebrate baptisms. 

These are the happier moments of life.  I am pleased that these people choose to make God part of their children’s life.  I am also pleased that the couple preparing for their wedding choose to do it in the Church, that God’s blessing be with them as they begin their married life together.

God wants to be part of every moment of our live, whether it be at birth with Baptism, the Sacrament of Reconciliation when we have sinned and seek his forgiveness, when we are ill and seek the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, when we marry in the Sacrament of Marriage, or in the everyday when we pray and celebrate the Eucharist, receiving the Body and Blood of Jesus.

God is with us always.  Let us be especially aware of his presence in the Sacraments which are his gift to us.

Peace,

Fr. Jeff