A Note From Father Bob

May 22, 2022

Dear Friends,

Grace and peace to you!

Summer is almost here!  Last week we celebrated the graduation of our Eighth Grade Class of 2022 on Friday and this week we see both the children of our school and the children of Pattonville Schools begin their summer vacations. Oh, what a wonderful time for all. 

Soon families will begin their summer travels to experience some much needed time away to relax, recharge, and just have fun. I know that many are looking forward to these days.  I know that I am looking forward to some time away in July.  As we prepare for our travels, we all look for great places to stay.  Places that have all that we need to make our stay enjoyable and free of concerns.  I remember when I was younger, wherever we went, my parents always picked a place that was close to a Catholic Church. This was so that we could always attend Mass on Sunday. This was always their top priority. Everything else was secondary.

If you look at the statistics for Sunday Mass attendance, you know that attending Sunday Mass is no longer a top priority for almost 75% of the Catholic population.  Many have speculated on the reasons for the decline.  I know I have.  It is difficult to say that there is one reason. Regardless, if you are reading this article, I ask you to make it your prayer that those who are away from regular Mass attendance will have a change of heart and return.  God has so much grace that he wants to share with us on Sunday in the Eucharist. His grace is what we need for our eternal lives. Pray that we all make Sunday Mass our top priority.

Annual Catholic Appeal Update

Thank you for your generous support of the Annual Catholic Appeal in our parish.  As of this past Monday you have pledged $114,307 toward this year’s campaign!  Our goal is $115,000. Your support will help many people in our St. Louis area.  If you have not yet made a pledge and wish to, you may follow the links in this bulletin, contact the parish office, or go online at aca.archstl.org.  Thank you for supporting all our Brothers and Sisters in need.

Let’s pray for each other this week. And let’s continue to pray for peace in Ukraine.

Peace,

Father Bob