Dear Parishioners and Friends,
Freedom. Liberty. Democracy. Opportunity. Self-determination. These are values and principles that we as citizens of the United States hold dear. For almost two-and-a-half centuries we have defended them through times of war and peace. I doubt that anyone living today would ever have imagined how fragile they have become. Independence Day in 2025 has become an occasion for us to reflect on whether or not we will reach our nation’s semiquincentennial one year from now.
Recently I read a letter from a pastor of a church in Rhode Island given to the friars by one of our parishioners. In the letter, he said what many pastors are feeling but are reluctant to state publicly. He spoke out about the detentions being carried out in various parts of the country by ICE, forcing undocumented migrants to be deported, separated from their families, spouses and children. The pastor said that he is outraged and heartbroken, feeling helpless watching people suffer because our leaders refuse to lead.
He closed with these words: “I pray for courage – ours and theirs. I pray for a country where laws are just, mercy is not a weakness, and our systems serve the people with dignity. May we never grow numb. May we never grow silent. May we always speak for those who cannot.”
We are a parish that upholds the dignity and human rights of all persons, both near and far. I offer my thanks and support for all the positive things you do to help our brothers and sisters to live in peace and security. This is what we are called to do as Christian citizens.
I would also like to say a few words about our “Christmas in July” campaign that starts this weekend and will continue for the next several weeks. This mid-year campaign has been a tremendous source of funding for our Sister Parish in Zorange, Haiti. In addi- tion to supporting the hot meal program for the students of Ste. Geneviève School and the teachers’ salaries, we also have begun to provide funds to assist some of the senior members of the parish. I hope you will participate in our “Christmas in July” campaign by taking one of the attractive ornaments from the tree set up in the church and make a generous gift to our brothers and sisters of Ste. Geneviève.
Blessings on your week ahead!
Fr. Tim Shreenan, O.F.M.
Pastor