As I write this we are celebrating the Second Sunday of Easter so I wish to tell you a little about Easter Sunday! I have to say that I have never experienced crowds of this magnitude here at St. Mark in the ten years that I have been Pastor. I'm sure it was a combination of things that made this such a joyful Easter, first, especially, with the naming of a new Pope called Francis. Although I enjoy the mystery and majesty of the office of Pope, it can bring with it a feeling of stiffness and a lack of intimacy. Pope Francis seems to be a breath of fresh air to our Church at a time when I think it needs it, not that it's better, it is just different. Maybe that's what people are feeling all around the world. Secondly I also like to think that St. Mark is making a difference in our community with it's moving liturgies and warm hospitality. With a new Church we would be able to accommodate more people by having multiple Masses at the same time on Easter and Christmas. Just think if at least half of those who come during these Holy Seasons would begin to come every Sunday! New Tampa would be on fire for Christ and what a change it would be not only for our area, but all those surrounding us. We still have a lot of work to do and I pray that it will be accomplished according to God's Will.
Last Saturday I heard confessions and said Mass for the young men on retreat at Bethany Center who will be making their Confirmation in the near future. I'm always impressed by their willingness to allow God into their every day life and I was impressed by their desire to get closer to Him. Our Youth Minister, MaryAnn Weigel does an excellent job motivating these young men and women and I'm especially impressed by the adults who also attend the retreat as helpers. They bring so much to these young people and they get so much back in return.
Hope you will be able to join us for the Blessing and Naming of the Bells on Thursday, April 25th at 7:30 p.m. This is a very ancient Rite which will be celebrated in the context of Evening Prayer. It promises to be a beautiful ceremony so mark your calendars and participate in this moment of history for St. Mark Church!
Well, that is all for now. May this Easter Season be one of joy for all of us as we celebrate our Redemption!
Fr. David
