Before I run off to Mundelein Seminary (Illinois) for my final run of classes with the IPF (Institute of Priestly Formation), I thought I would leave you with two updates. This past week our Parish Pastoral Council had elections for our newest council leaders. Please join me in welcoming and praying for Erin Sudomir (President), John Hardesty (Vice President), Michele Steurer and Pamela Crandall (Corresponding Secretaries), and Lisa McNeill (Recording Secretary for the second year). They will follow in the responsibilities of our outgoing corresponding secretary, Becky Bisesi, vice president, Timothy Eberhardt, and James Meyer (president). These three servants of the Lord have helped lead and direct with great patience and wisdom. (A special thank you to James for putting a sense of peace and support for me personally during this year of transition.)
This week offers us the chance to enter more deeply in prayer through the intercession of Our Lady of Lourdes. The following can be used once or as a novena.
“O ever-Immaculate Virgin, Mother of Mercy, health of the sick, refuge of sinners, comforter of the afflicted, you know my wants, my troubles, my sufferings; look with mercy on me. By appearing in the Grotto of Lourdes, you were pleased to make it a privileged sanctuary, whence you dispense your favors; and already many sufferers have obtained the cure of their infirmities, both spiritual and corporal. I come, therefore, with complete confidence to implore your maternal intercession. Obtain, O loving Mother, my requests. Through gratitude for your favors, I will endeavor to imitate your virtues, that I may one day share your glory. Amen”
One other chance for prayer can come by joining me in one of my daily requirements while I am at the seminary. Pray LECTIO DIVINA as St. Ignatius encourages. (Read more at Busted Halo’s website.) See you at the annual Night of Giving.
Pax, Fr. Bline
