February 9th, 2014

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

A few weeks ago after one of the Sunday Masses a boy of about five approached me in the back of the Church and asked me if I would pray for Dad who is having a hard time finding a job.  I knelt down next to him and said, “Of course.”  I asked the boy what his father’s name is so I could pray for him by name.  The child looked down for a few seconds in deep thought and then looked at me and apologetically said, “I don’t know.  I just call him Dad.”  I was so moved by this child’s concern and love for his Dad that I had to fight back my tears as we prayed.  Let us remember to keep all Dads, Moms and all those who are looking for work in our prayers.

With Lent less than a month away – Can you believe it? – the annual Lenten practices of increased prayer, fasting and almsgiving are just around the corner.  Regarding prayer, what not consider attended daily Mass?  Before you say, I do not have time, please know that daily Mass is no longer than 30 minutes.  This is because at daily Mass the Gloria and Creed are not said, there is no second reading, no songs are sung, the homily is shorter and, best of all, there is no collection.  J  At St. Dominic’s we have Masses at 7:00 and 8:15 a.m. Monday through Friday, and an 8:15 am Mass on Saturday.  The 8:15 Mass may be a hair longer when the school children are in attendance.  If St. Dominic’s Mass times do not fit your schedule, you can find other Churches’ daily Mass schedule at www.masstimes.org.  Maybe a daily closer to where you work in the morning, a Mass at lunchtime or Mass just after work might better fit your schedule.  The Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith; why not partake of it everyday?

You will be receiving invitations to attend ONE Campaign receptions to find our more about the campaign.  Please know these receptions are based upon the principle of leave your wallets at home but bring an open mind and your questions.

God bless you,

Fr. Jerome