The Nativity of The Lord (Christmas)

Dear Parishioner,

The Feast of the Nativity of Jesus causes deep reflection for all of us. There is so much to ponder as we look at the great window of the nativity on the East side of our church or when we contemplate the crèche in the sanctuary.

Jesus was completely vulnerable. He once was a baby in his mother’s arms as we were at one time children in the arms of our parents. Cardinal Joseph Bernadine once reflected that God must have trusted our human family a lot to allow his son to be born into the world and to be completely dependent on others. I think that is a good thing for us to ponder. How well do we take care of each other? Are we looking out for the children of the world today by giving them stable homes, enough to eat and a good education? We are not only to take care of our own children, but our neighbors children according to the Gospel. It is a challenge for all of us.

This is my third Christmas at Sacred Heart and I see a lot of compassionate people in our congregation. I see elderly spouses supporting each other. I see dedicated religion teachers and school teachers educating our children in the faith. There are nurses and doctors who care for the sick. I am impressed by all those who work in the various charitable organizations around our community. But there is always one more person in need.

God has entrusted all of us to each other. As we move forward in time let us pray that we are up to the challenge of caring for the helpless in our midst. We have a lot to do, but God will give us strength.

Merry Christmas,

Fr. Mark

P.S. I would like to thank all those who sent me greetings at Christmas and those who gave me gifts. You are too kind! I would also like to thank Fr. Sebastian who has given the people of Sacred Heart another year of pastoral service and Deacon Pat and his wife Mary Beth who are always ready to help with pastoral care as well. I also would like to thank our parish staff who serve Sacred Heart so well. I know they always want to serve you to the best of their ability. Please compliment all the people who work in any capacity at Sacred Heart when you see them. A kind word makes them feel appreciated. Once again, I invite anyone who does ministry or service at Sacred Heart to the rectory on the Feast of the Epiphany so I may thank you in person.