Dear Parish Family,

Happy Labor Day weekend! It might seem ironic that we celebrate the gift of labor by taking the day off of work, but the truth is that we need rest from our labors to cherish the gift of our work and to labor for the right reasons. Rest is the natural corollary to labor which allows us to remember the meaning of our work and restore us so that our labors remain fruitful. We don't live to work or work merely to live. Rather, we work to build up God's Kingdom in whatever work we are given, and give thanks to God for entrusting us with the gifts we need to carry out our daily labors.

 

It can be tempting to view our work as mere productivity, getting more done to save time or increase profits, but labor necessarily involves reflection and gratitude, imagination and desire, preparation and rest. All great artisans of any craft take time to rest, give thanks to God, hone their talents, and prepare for what's next with an open heart and eager mind.

 

Think of prayer also as a work of labor and rest. It takes commitment, perseverance, and energy to stay in communion with our Lord. We need to take time to pause and pray each day and to take time for Mass every Sunday and holy day. Like labor and rest, prayer helps us to recover, appreciate and take satisfaction in our daily responsibilities, plan and prepare for what's ahead, and listen to how God is speaking to us day by day.

 

Moreover, prayer and work require humility. We should take satisfaction in what we’ve done well for God and others in all humility, saying "Praise God!" for all the good that He is doing through us. The first reading from Sirach this Sunday speaks of this reality: "Conduct your affairs with humility." Humility consists of trusting in God and thanking Him for the graces He gives us to remain faithful to the labors entrusted to us.

 

As you come to Mass this weekend and hear God's Word, remember humility in your labors. Whether it's doing your homework or housework, reading, exercising, going to your job, taking care of your children, spending time with someone who needs you, or taking time to pray, do your work well and do it for God. Do it with humility and faith in God's grace given to you. Be grateful for your work, and always seek to do the best you can for Jesus. That truly is the key to happiness and fulfillment in life!

 

We've had hundreds of people tour the new rectory in the past few weeks! Our open house on Saturday, August 16 drew more than 200 people into the rectory, and the St. Mary School students had a chance to tour the rectory on Tuesday, August 19. Fr. Fabian, Fr. Gary and I are so grateful for all of the rectory shower housewarming gifts we received from our families. As we use the gifts in the new rectory, we will prayerfully remember the people that gifted each item. It adds a beautiful personal touch to our new rectory.

 

Bishop Malesic will celebrate the Oktoberfest 12 pm Mass at St. Mary's on Sunday, September 28 and bless the new rectory after Mass. Please plan on joining us for Mass, the rectory blessing, and all the Oktoberfest festivities to follow!

  

Check out the Angel Scholarship Fund message in today's bulletin, and look for more information in our 

Fall Messenger newsletter at the end of next month. We are incredibly blessed to have such a supportive parish and school family. Keep up the good work!

Remember that Labor Day Mass will be held at St. Mary's at 9:00 am this Monday for Labor Day. I look forward to celebrating Mass with you this Labor Day!

 

I am yours in Christ,

Fr. Scott Goodfellow