“Come, Holy Spirit! Enkindle in us the fire of Your love! We know that this is a bold prayer, with which we ask to be touched by God's flame; but above all we know that this flame and it alone has the power to save us. We do not want, in defending our life, to lose eternal life that God wants to give us. We need the fire of the Holy Spirit, because only Love redeems. Amen.” (Pope Benedict XVI).

Fr. Mark’s 25 Anniversary.  As we welcome the Holy Spirit anew in our lives this weekend, we welcome back Fr. Mark Ott to celebrate his 25 years as a priest of Jesus Christ!  He will celebrate the 5:00 p.m. Mass on Saturday, May 23.  His anniversary of ordination is May 19.  It will be a joy to pray with him and thank God for his calling and the way he has instructed and formed the hearts of those studying at seminary.  Thank you, Fr. Ott!

Immaculate Conception Update.  As of May 24, Immaculate Conception Parish in Kenmore has officially become part of St. Francis de Sales Parish.  Their territory officially becomes our territory.  Currently, we do not have a plan for how the school, church and rectory buildings will be used in the future.  I will be attending diocesan meetings in the months ahead to see how Catholic Charities will best use the facilities.  I will let you all know what the plans are once decisions are made.  St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception, pray for us!

Welcome New Members.  This weekend, at the 11:00 a.m. Mass, we welcome new parishioners here at St. Francis de Sales.  On every Pentecost Sunday going forward, we will welcome new parishioners as we celebrate the birthday of the Church.  At Mass, I will ask them to stand and bless them.  Here is the prayer I will pray over them…

Prayer for New Parishioners
Lord God, we entrust to Your loving care our new parishioners who are joining our church family today. We thank You for bringing them to this community, and we celebrate the unique gifts and talents they bring to us.

Pour out Your Holy Spirit upon them. May they find in this parish a place of spiritual nourishment, fellowship, and peace. Guide their steps, deepen their faith, and surround them with friends who will walk alongside them in their spiritual journey. We ask this in Your holy and blessed name. Amen.

Welcome Home,
Fr. Jeremy