St. Mark's News & Events for December 16, 2007

The Trip Cont.

On its own, Messina was pretty place with its Domed Churches and narrow streets but that was about all there was to the place. Many on the tour went to beautiful Taromina on top of a large mountain overlooking the Bay of Naples close to Mt. Vesuvius. This scenic town is a must visit if ever you go to Sicily and the food yet again is outstanding. Some in our group ventured to find relatives and the birthplace of parents, etc. which turned out to be very heartwarming. Seeing the places where family grew up always brings a sense of completion to one’s life. Since I had been to Taromina before I decided to spend another relaxing day on the ship eating everything in sight. I even decided to have ice cream at eleven in the morning to tie me over until lunch rolled around. That night after dinner there was a presentation by the cruise director in which introductions were made and people on the ship were questioned on stage about their marital status, where they’re from, etc. including one couple from our own parish who were picked to come up. Much of it was quite funny and I realized that the rest of the cruise would be much the same way. Next stop, Dubrovnik in Croatia, so stay tuned.

Last Saturday, a group of parishioners along with me journeyed down to St. Stephen’s Parish to accept the Book of the Gospels from Bishop Lynch as the kick-off for the Diocese three-year initiative on the Eucharist, which for us will begin in Lent of this coming year. This first year in the three-year initiative is about opening up the Scriptures to allow the Word to transform our hearts and light a fire of conversion for us, and the world. It was a beautiful event and I pray that we along with the rest of the Diocese will be on fire for God as we all make this journey together. Bulletin and pulpit announcements will be forthcoming.

Just a reminder, after all the Masses on December 22nd and 23rd we will be having a congratulations reception for Abbot Isaac Camacho in which we will be bestowing our Parish gift of a Crosier as a sign of his office as Abbot. If you would like to give to this parish gift, please send it into the office or you may put it into the collection basket marked Abbott Isaac’s gift. Congratulations to Abbott Isaac and we thank you for all you have done for our community!

Well, that is all for now. Continue to enjoy the gift that God has given us in each other.

Peace, Fr. David