Dear Parishioners and Friends,
As a round of wintry weather settled upon us last weekend, bringing snow and freezing temperatures, our hearts were warmed by the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the covenant with our Sister Parish of Sainte-Geneviève in Zoranje, Haiti. It was certainly a memorable celebration – from the joyous music at the 4:00 PM Mass to the delicious Haitian-themed food served at the reception in the Franciscan Center. I am grateful to everyone who took part in the preparations, including our music ministry and the members of our Drumming Circle, and especially our Sister Parish Committee under the leadership of Patti Wawzyniecki who spent many hours over the past few months planning for the event. I was particularly moved by the handsome photos of some of the children of Ste. Geneviéve which decorated the tables in the Center. May our covenant continue to flourish for many years, and may the people of Haiti soon have peace and security in their nation!
Back in November I mentioned in my weekly letter that I have been asked to give a retreat day for the liturgical musicians of the Diocese of Bridgeport which will take place this coming Friday, January 30th. Thank you to the parishioners who emailed me stories of how music had touched them during a liturgical event. I am looking forward to sharing my reflections on the theme “Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.”
In a few weeks I will be at Siena University to participate in the dedication of a new organ in their chapel, and I’ve been invited to play some organ pieces as a prelude to the Mass. The new organ is the fulfillment of a 50-year-long dream of mine, ever since I graduated in 1976! I hope all the practicing I’ve been doing lately will be worth the effort.
As we move toward the end of January and anticipate Ash Wednesday and start of Lent, let us continue to celebrate our unity as a community of faith in the service of God and one another.
Blessings on your week ahead!
Fr. Tim Shreenan, O.F.M.
Pastor
This Sunday is known as Word of God Sunday, read more about what this means to us.