Letter to the Parish for May 2, 2010

From the Pastor
Letter to the Parish for May 2, 2010
By Fr. Ron Buchmiller




Dear OLPH Family and Friends,

Even though we will celebrate the Easter Season another three weeks, we find ourselves with a reading about the Last Supper. Jesus’ command to love one another is part of His explanation to the disciples of His washing their feet. He modeled for them actions that speak of love – a love that will even go so far as to surrender life itself for others. It is a love that is extended even to those who will not reciprocate it. Jesus washed the feet of all the disciples, even those of Judas, who was about to hand Him over to His opponents, and Peter, who was about to deny he even knew Jesus.

As difficult as it is for us to accept at times, Jesus calls us to that same type of love. He calls us to love even when we know it will not be reciprocated. He calls us to love, even when our attempts will be scorned and rejected. Jesus frequently speaks of the fact that there is “no greater love than for one to lay down his life for his friends.”

The Roman Historian, Josephus, was so impressed with the 1st Century Christians that he is quoted as saying “My! How those Christians love one another.” If there is not enough evidence for us to be recognized by that statement – perhaps it is time for us to renew our efforts to love as Jesus loves, not expecting any return to our love!

Many thanks to all who worked to make our Bazaar such a success! We will publish the winners of the Raffle next week and hopefully have some preliminary results to share. Remember what Jim Dominique said a couple of times – the most important thing is “to have fun.” Sorry to disappoint his boys who wanted to have “a rude noise contest.” Somehow they were out-voted. J

May is the month of Mary. We celebrate Mary as the Mother of Jesus, the Theotokus, the Mother of the Church. May we always be faithful in imitating her by pointing the way to her Son, Jesus! The School will have a crowning of Mary ceremony on May 14th and the parish will have a similar crowning celebration on the 16th, after the 9 am Mass. All are welcome to share this beautiful tradition.

We WELCOME BISHOP ROBERT BROM to our parish this Tuesday as he comes to confer the Sacrament of Confirmation! Please pray for all those completing their Initiation as Catholic Christians in this Sacrament! May God bless our Community with a generous outpouring of the Gifts of the Spirit! May our Community be generous in sharing these Gifts! God bless and keep you!