PICNIC THANKSGIVING AND SCHOOL STARTING

I hope you all enjoyed the parish picnic several weeks ago. I enjoyed my “job” as popcorn maker. I think we will continue having popcorn available at the picnics. When I was pastor in Polonia, the pastor’s job was “chairperson of the weather committee.” The pastor, in fact, was the only member of the “committee” and his sole job was to pray for good weather. While we don’t have a weather committee here at OLQH, my prayers for good weather were answered as it was a beautiful day!
 
I want to thank Deacon Tom and Mary Anderson for serving as the chairpersons for the picnic this year as well as all the chairs of the various booths and areas. Everyone’s hard work is greatly appreciated. We sometimes forget that the picnic is our parish’s largest fundraiser of the year and, while it serves to bring the parish together and have some fun, we also hold it for fundraising. Once all of the receipts and invoices come in, we will be able to offer you a financial report of the picnic. This often takes some time so your patience is appreciated. If you were not able to help at or attend the picnic this year, consider doing so at next year’s.
 
Changing gears, we heard last week from Bishop Callahan about the beginning of the school year. On August 30th, we had our first school Mass at OLQH School. I am happy to report that the attendance at OLQH School (grades 5K–2) is at its highest in recent years. I am very happy to be able to often celebrate Mass for our students and also visit all the classrooms regularly. Our own parochial vicar, Father Weller, is chaplain at Assumption Middle and High Schools and he is now spending most of his week at AHS. Please keep him in your prayers for his effective ministry there.
 
We also have a great program of religious education, adult faith formation, and RCIA planned for this year. I am so thankful to have Rebecca Zalar as our Director of Religious Education. She is always available to speak about anything regarding religious formation. If you or someone you know is considering becoming Catholic, or getting confirmed as an adult, why not take the time to speak to Rebecca about the exciting RCIA program we have in our deanery this year.
 
As we get back to the autumn routine, it’s a good time to get back to the routine of regular Mass, prayer, and reception of the Sacrament of Confession. All of our times are listed on the front of the bulletin. We’re glad you’re a part of this parish—let us together walk in the light of the Lord!