Dear Parishioners and Friends,
On behalf of all the friars and lay staff of St. Patrick-St. Anthony, I would like to wish all of you a happy and healthy Thanksgiving Day later this week. Although our nation is facing many difficult struggles these days, we should never forgot how blessed we are, and how thankful we ought to be for each other, and the love and support we give to others, especially to those most in need. I am certainly very thankful for all of you by your care and support which sustain me day after day.
At this time of the year, when families gather around the Thanksgiving table, I am mindful of the empty chairs where beloved family members once sat. I think of those who serve in our nation’s military or who are on duty as first responders. Thank you for your service to us. I think of those who are in hospitals or nursing homes, or those who are alone in any way. May they feel the closeness and comfort of the Lord.
And now for a little homework assignment. About a month ago, I received an invitation from the Diocese of Bridgeport to give some talks at a retreat day for liturgical musicians. I was informed that, due to my experience and the notoriety of the music program we have at St. Patrick-St. Anthony, I was recommended as a potential retreat master/speaker.
At first I was reluctant to accept their proposal, but the more I thought about it the more interested I became. My plan is to expand on the homily I gave in September of last year on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of my ordination. My theme was on the verse from Psalm 96 which says “Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.” I’ve had a number of moments that lifted me up by their sheer magnificence. So, I’d you to describe a moment you felt over-whelmed by beauty in a liturgical experience, or even in nature.
Send your comments to me at [email protected].
Best wishes for a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!
Fr. Tim Shreenan, O.F.M.
Pastor
