That "Fall Feeling"

 

Greetings to all of you!

 

I'm beginning to get that "fall feel" as we begin to head into October!  This time of year is always my favorite since I know that cooler weather is just around the corner and we celebrate some major holidays.  In addition, my golf clubs have been screaming to go out and play so I better get out on the golf course soon or they may abandon me for someone else.  At least my bike has been getting a little workout as it rides through the beautiful paths of Flatwoods Park.  It feels great passing through the natural preserve and one almost forgets we live in a city.  Besides, it's also where I sense God's presence all around me and brings me a feeling of peace.  

 

Speaking of changes in the weather, it seems that there is some change in the air regarding our Catholic Church.  I have been moved by the way Pope Francis has approached some important topics regarding abortion, homosexuality, and other hot button issues that we face as Catholics. His style is one of mercy rather than of condemnation and I really see the Church reaching out to those who seemed to have felt ostracized by our Church in prior years.  Nothing he has said goes against Church teaching, but the way he handles the issue is definitely different.  His nonjudgmental attitude and merciful love reminds me of another man who lived over 2000 years ago.  I really think more people are coming back to the Church because of him and I am thrilled that we have such a pastoral Pope.  Let's keep praying for this wonderful man!

 

What a great response we have been having with our Capital Campaign!  We are close and I know we will get there by the end of the year.  If you haven't pledged just yet, please do so!  We also have pews left over to memorialize along with other items.  If you can't pledge, please pray!  We need your participation!

 

Well, that is all of now.  May God bless you for your goodness!

 

Peace,

Fr. David

Structural Changes

Greetings to all of you!

As many of you know, we have been undergoing some structural changes regarding the administration and ministries here at St. Mark. I'm finally prepared to share the names of those Stewards who will be part of the new Parish Stewardship and Advisory Board. This particular board will act in an advisory capacity to me and they will deal with issues affecting our parish along with being the eyes, ears, and voice of the parish community. I am happy to announce the following individuals who have agreed to serve on this board: Chairperson--Rolando Lopez with Warren and Mary Dietz as co-chairs. Andy and Sandra Silecchia, Deacon Jose Moronta, Harry Thomas, Hector and Pati Rios, Jim and Lynn Thomas, Monin Gonzalez, Pat Fehey, Julio Dones, and Paul Pita. 

I am also happy to announce that Mary Strickland has agreed to come on staff as our new Ministry Coordinator. Mary will be the "go-to" person for all of our non-staff ministries in the parish. This will lead to greater communication and support for all the ministries of our parish and she will be the conduit for them to our office. Mary will answer to our Assistant General Manager, Claudia Garcia and I'm thrilled that St. Mark will be served by this gifted leader. Welcome aboard, Mary, and I offer my prayers and thanks for all those who have agreed to serve St. Mark.

As you read this I will be speaking at all the Masses regarding our Capital Campaign for a new Church. WE ARE VERY CLOSE! I pray that those of you who have been waiting to see what happens will finally jump on the bandwagon and make this happen! I'm so pleased and thankful that many of you have upped your pledge or agreed to pay off your pledge early. This has really helped to get us at that crucial 50% figure that will determine when we break ground. I will be having a video from our website to explain where we are in case you need more information or wish to share this information with those who haven't heard it. Again, keep us in your prayers, the time is coming!

Well, that is all for now. May God bless you for your goodness to Him!

Peace,

 Fr. David