From the desk of Fr. John...

Dear Parishioners,
In Matthew’s Gospel we hear Jesus say to his disciples “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” I was moved to write this after the Masses this past weekend and seeing all of the families and children present at Mass, especially the 10:30 Mass on Sunday. So often I am asked by parishioners “But where have all the families and children gone?” and this weekend it was a great joy for me to see that question answered.

I would like to address two topics quickly. First, I want all our families to know that you are welcome and supported in bringing your children to Mass. Children fuss! Litte boys (and girls) like to bounce in their seats or fidget and even, occasionally, make a break for it!  None of this
should dissuade you from bringing them to Mass just as Jesus exhorted his disciples to do when he said “Let the children come to me”.
Second, Jesus’ command to his disciples imposes an obligation on the rest of us, as a Christian community, to do everything in our power to make families and children welcome at Mass. For stressed-out parents it can sometimes take no more than a disproving look or a murmured complaint to someone sitting close by for the family to become discouraged and feel unwelcome and to then stop coming to Mass.  Again, Jesus’ words guide us as he says “Do not prevent them” [the children] from coming to me."

Our Divine Mercy Parish is a beautiful and welcoming community and it always gives me great joy to see families and children living out the Faith we have been given. May the words of Jesus continue to guide us all as we strive to emulate a child-like trust in God so that we too may enter
the kingdom of heaven.
                                                                                                                            ~ Fr. John