We have a lot to celebrate this weekend! First of all, we celebrate this great day of Pentecost. It is an important day for us as the Church considers Pentecost as our day of birth. The Apostles received the gift of the Holy Spirit and when they did, the Holy Spirit allowed them to preach the Good News and bring many to the Gospel and to receive the Sacraments. That day, many heard the message of the Gospel in their own language. The Lord had always intended that this message of Good News would not be contained to one people or race. Instead, it is a chance for the whole world to hear and accept the message of the Gospel. May the Holy Spirit continue to come into our hearts and help us to live our faith to the fullest as well as help the Church to grow and flourish.
This weekend is also a weekend where we remember those who served and protected our country: Memorial Day. As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, there are many who have served, protected us, and defended our freedom. No matter if it was the Colonial Army of George Washington during the American Revolution, or those who defended us and gave their lives during World War I or World War II or other wars and conflicts, we should all take a pause to pray sometime this weekend. If you have a chance, thank a Veteran for their service. This day has always been important to me and my family because many family members have served over the years. May the Lord continue to watch over us and our nation and bless us especially in this anniversary year.
As the school year is in its final weeks, we also remember all of our graduates. Either this past week, or this coming week, our students have graduated from one of the many high schools in our area. Congratulations also to our college graduates from the parish. May the Lord bless all of you in what lies ahead of you in life.
Thank you everyone for all your gifts and support of our 2026 Bishop’s Appeal. We hope to be wrapping this up soon! If you haven’t already given, please consider making a gift or pledge to support the work of the Church throughout Southwestern Michigan. Anything that we receive over and above our goal, comes back to the parish and will help us pay down our loan from the renovation project from 20 years ago.
May the Holy Spirit be in your hearts and families this Pentecost Sunday!