“The Spirit comes to the aid of our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes with inexpressible groanings” (Romans 8:26).  We are six sessions into the Wild Goose and it is going well.  Each week is a great time to gather, listen, reflect and share.  It goes from 7:00-8:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and is a great time to open your heart to the movement of the Spirit in your life.  We have 8 sessions left.  Come by if you’re able.  This past session was on the Spirit and the Eucharist.  In the reflection, Fr. Pivonka shares that: “The Spirit helps us to more profoundly grasp the reality that Jesus is present in the Eucharist.  Pray for this grace.  Before you attend Mass next Sunday take a few minutes with your family to read and discuss Sunday’s gospel…Arrive a few minutes early and ask the Holy Spirit to show Himself to you in a new and profound way.”  St. Paul shares that the Spirit comes to our aid and helps us to pray.  What a gift it would be if we experienced the Holy Spirit in a new way at every Mass.  It can happen in your life.  Ask for it.  Expect it.  God is real and abundant and wants to share His life with you.  Receive it.

Congratulations Karen Whyte!  Next Sunday, July 26 at the 9:00 a.m. Mass, we will celebrate Karen’s 50 years of service as an organist here at St. Francis.  At a young age, on August 15, 1976, she began serving in music ministry. Before she had her driver’s license, she would walk to church and lead us in song and music as an organist.  She not only serves on Sunday, but plays at our PSR, School and Funeral liturgies throughout the year.  Her dedication to Jesus Christ is inspiring.  When you see her, let her know how grateful we are for her dedication and love for St. Francis de Sales.  It is inspiring!  Thank you Karen for who you are…your kindheartedness, faithfulness and generosity enrich us all.  I pray Karen’s witness of starting to serve the Church at a young age encourages our own youth to share their gifts and talents in service to the Church.  Over the last couple weekends at the 9:00 and 11:00 Masses, we experienced Genesis-Revelation, which is a praise and worship group of rising  9th graders who aren’t afraid to bless our community with beautiful music.  Let’s keep it going.

God bless all those who serve the Church,
Fr. Jeremy