CELEBRATE THE BEAUTY OF LIFE FULLY … HOW?  COME TO OUR FESTIVAL IN MARION ON RESPECT LIFE SUNDAY, OCTOBER  3, WITH BISHOP GARY JANAK

Dear parishioners,

One excellent way to support our parish and to show your belonging to us as a family is to attend Mass in Marion on Oct 3 at 10:15 am, presided by our newly ordained Auxiliary Bishop of San Antonio, Gary Janak, right before the start of our 2021 Festival.

As Catholic Christians, we are Easter people, people with hope and joy.  Can’t think of a better way to live this, other than the Eucharist, of course, than getting together this one time a year to celebrate life with good company, food, bingo, games and lots of opportunities to support the many booths with fun and beautiful stuff to purchase.  All of this with the untiring contribution of many parishioners and volunteers that make it all possible.  Blessings to all of you!

 Each year the Church in the United States celebrates October as Respect Life Month.  This is the time we can use to deepen our understanding of why, as Catholics, we “Respect Life” and what that looks like day-to-day.

 We are also in the midst of celebrating the Year of St. Joseph.  So, this year, we are looking to the witness of St. Joseph as a defender of life.  He didn’t hesitate to follow God’s will of faithfully caring for and protecting Jesus and the Blessed Mother.  St. Joseph’s example reminds us that we are also to care for, protect, and defend the lives of our brothers and sisters.

 So, especially in the month of October, we can renew our commitment to become more like St. Joseph by asking ourselves a few questions: How do I treat people around me, at home, at work or anywhere I go?  How’s my attitude and willingness to support pregnant women, immigrants, the elderly, the poor or afflicted?

 When human life is threatened, when others need support welcoming or embracing life, may we lovingly respond with the faithfulness of St. Joseph.

 St. Joseph, Defender of Life, pray for us!

 With much gratitude to all of you, may God bless you and keep you safe,

Fr. O