In the second reading, St. Paul writes: “I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, your spiritual worship. Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect.” (Rom 12:1-2).
St. Paul is calling us to transformation of the body and the mind. What are you doing right now to help keep your mind and body in a good, healthy, holy place? When it comes to the body, know that we will begin Holy Hiking soon! On 6 Saturdays in September and October, we will hike different trails together, praying and reflecting on the goodness of God. See the schedule below. Please sign up for the Holy Hiking Group on the St. Francis de Sales Flocknote in order to get updates and reminders. See you there!
Sept. 9, 11:00am – Portage Lakes State Park, Big Parking Lot
Sept. 16, 2:00pm – Gorge Metro Park
Sept. 23 – No Hiking
Sept. 30, 11:00am – Canal Fulton Lock 4 Trailhead
Oct. 7, 11:00am – Silver Creek Park – Pheasant Run Shelter
Oct. 14, 11:00am – Firestone Metroparks Tuscarawas Shelter
Oct. 21 – No Hiking
Oct. 28, 11:00am – Nimisila Reservoir Parking Lot C
When it comes to transforming and renewing your mind, perhaps you can attend an RCIA Session on Tuesday nights at 7:00pm to dive deeper into what it means to be Catholic. Here is a message from Fr. David about it….
“Thirsting for God?”
Do you know someone not baptized or baptized in a non-Catholic Christian tradition, who is thirsting for what it means to become Catholic? Do you know someone who is already Catholic but has not yet received Confirmation & Communion? They may be thirsting too! The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a place to ask questions and seek understanding. Weekly “no obligation” inquiry sessions start September 5 at 7:00pm in the Memorare Center. Email Fr. David Verbsky for more information at frverbsky@stfparish.com.
Lastly, DO NOT FORGET ABOUT OUR PARISH FESTIVAL ON SEPTEMBER 10 from 12-4pm!!!!! It will be a wonderful time! Our parish festival committee and our parish council have worked many hours to help plan and execute a beautiful afternoon for food, fun and fellowship! There will especially be many fun activities for our children. At 4:00pm we will close our celebration of the parish’s 75th Anniversary by celebrating Mass and truly giving thanks to God for all the good He has accomplished in this community.
See you there!
Fr. Jeremy
