In 2017 one of the most important events that occurred in our parish was the mission we held during Lent. That mission was something we prepared for throughout the year by focusing on the theme of Faith on Fire. When our mission ended, many parishioners asked how we might follow up on our mission experience. Is there a theme that can energize and continue to renew us, something that can guide our parish life in the year ahead?
For 2018, the theme I have decided on is "Witnessing to our Faith". Witnesses testify to what they have seen, heard and experienced. I am designating the third Sunday of every month as Witness Sunday, a day when parishioners from our faith community will give a brief testimoney of their faith. These testimonies allow us to hear what they belive and why they believe so that we can continue to grow in our faith.
In the weeks ahead I will return to the theme of witnessing our faith, and we will hear many testimonies from our fellow parishioners. All of this will culminate in a celebration of witness and song during Lent, similar to last year's celebration of song and praise at the opening of our parish mission. Listen to what your fellow parishioners testify about their faith, and ask yourself: what do I believe, why do I believe and what is my witness to Christ?
Father Matera