Dear Friends,
For those present at St John The Evangelist Roman Catholic Church last weekend, thank you for your attention to my invitation regarding our parish growth. To those who were unable to attend, I extend a warm invitation to participate in our special Lenten program designed to strengthen our beloved parish community.
This enriching program will span eight weeks, featuring weekly gatherings at varied times and accessible locations to encourage broad participation from our St John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church family. Each meeting, lasting approximately ninety minutes, will center on thoughtful reflection and open discussion of the insightful material presented in “Forty Days to Uncover What Matters.” This book is a practical guide born from the impactful Rebuilt Faith initiative, which originated at Nativity Parish in Maryland.
“Forty Days to Uncover What Matters” delves into the transformative journey of Nativity Parish as they rediscovered life’s true priorities and the indispensable role of faith in this pursuit. We selected this book for our Lenten program at St John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church because of its accessible approach. It’s not a dense theological treatise, but rather a relatable exploration of real-life questions, offering potential answers rooted in faith and service. The remarkable success of our pilot program through our existing Small Groups has inspired us to broaden and continue this meaningful work within our larger parish community.
I understand that an eight-week commitment is significant. It requires dedication and, undoubtedly, some sacrifice. However, I also deeply believe in the willingness of our parishioners at St John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church to invest in deepening their awareness of God’s presence in their daily lives. Lent, traditionally a season of sacrifice, provides the perfect backdrop for this journey. What more meaningful way to observe this holy season than by embarking on a shared spiritual exploration with fellow members of our St John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church family?
The program material thoughtfully examines the essence of a parish. This exploration will prompt introspection, encouraging us to collectively consider our purpose as a faith community. This reflection may lead to adjustments in our communal practices at St John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church, some of which may present challenges. However, the program’s emphasis on service – its meaning and its foundational role in a thriving parish – will illuminate how service is the genuine path to lasting fulfillment, both individually and as a united family of faith within St John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church.
If this invitation resonates with you, I encourage you to listen for the Lord’s voice in your heart. Perhaps you are being called to contribute to revitalizing our parish in a dynamic way, reminiscent of its vibrant past. Every member of St John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church has a vital role to play in this endeavor, because every person is invaluable to our parish family, and each of you possesses unique gifts to offer. Your individual talents and contributions are essential to our collective flourishing. Yes, you are needed!
Details regarding the specific times and locations of the meetings will be shared as our groups take shape. To begin, please contact the Parish Office at St John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church and express your interest in participating in this enriching Lenten program. You will be asked about your availability – preferred days or evenings – along with other relevant questions to ensure we accommodate your participation as conveniently as possible.
Please pray for discernment, to hear the Lord’s call. Pray for those managing the logistical aspects and finer details of this program at St John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church. And pray especially for our facilitators, who will guide (not lead) the group discussions. The true teachers will be the program materials and the shared insights of the group members. Your participation and perspectives are invaluable. We have much to learn from each other!
In Christ,
Fr. Tom
