Pastor's Page

“Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves.”

St. Paul’s words to the Philippians are both beautiful and challenging. He reminds us that Christian life is not ultimately about ourselves—our accomplishments, our recognition, our opinions, or our desire to have things our way. Rather, it is about learning to look beyond ourselves and to see the needs and dignity of others. This is especially important in our own time. We live in a culture that constantly encourages us to ask, “What about me?” St. Paul asks us to ask a different question: “What about the other person?”

This week the church celebrated the beatification of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen who was a theologian, author, and renowned radio and television evangelist who brought the Gospel to millions through his preaching and broadcasts. He also served as the National Director of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith from 1950 to 1966, dedicating himself to supporting missionaries and spreading the Gospel throughout the world.

His ministry of communicating the faith through media is an example of what St. Paul describes: a life centered not on self, but on Christ and on service to others. Sheen’s ministry reminds us that evangelization begins with a relationship with Jesus Christ. His preaching and teaching sought to draw people into that relationship and then to send them outward in service. He had a particular devotion to the Eucharist and to the Blessed Mother, and he understood that the faith we receive must become a faith we share.

The church gives us Blessed Archbishop Sheen to inspire us to follow Christ in taking the form of a servant in our lives. We do not need a television program, a microphone, or a large audience to evangelize. We evangelize whenever we bring Christ into an ordinary human encounter. A kind word, an act of forgiveness, a visit to someone who is lonely, patience with a difficult person, welcoming someone who feels like an outsider, or quietly serving without receiving recognition can all become opportunities to make Christ present and share in the missionary work of the Church.

REST IN THE PEACE OF CHRIST – Our parish community is united in praying for the repose of the soul of Jeff Zero, father of our Associate Pastor, Fr. Frank Zero. Fr. Frank, his mother and his siblings are deeply appreciative of the consoling support and prayers they have received. Fr. Frank will celebrate his father’s funeral mass here at St. Rose this Thursday, October 1 at 12:30 pm. Parishioners are welcome to attend.

SUNDAY MASS – As summer comes to an end, I would like to offer a gentle reminder about the importance of reverence as we gather for the Holy Eucharist.

Our manner of dress is one way we show respect for the sacredness of the Mass. Our clothing need not be formal or elaborate, but it should reflect that we are coming into the presence of God and participating in the most sacred act of our faith.

Our actions as we enter the church also speak of our faith. Upon entering the pew, we should genuflect toward the tabernacle, making the Sign of the Cross, as a conscious acknowledgment of the real presence of Christ.

Let us also be mindful of our conversations before Mass. It is wonderful to see friends and members of our parish family and to welcome one another. At the same time, the church is a place of prayer.  Use the moments before Mass for quiet prayer and preparation.

The reception of Holy Communion deserves our greatest reverence. When we approach the altar, we should do so prayerfully and attentively. We should receive with dignity and consume the Host immediately and reverently. Let us never forget that we are not receiving a symbol alone—we are receiving Christ Himself.

Teaching our children by both word and example. Children learn reverence by watching us. When they see us genuflect, pray quietly, participate attentively, bow before receiving Communion, and approach the Eucharist with devotion, they learn that Mass is something precious and sacred.

None of these reminders is meant to be a criticism or a burden. Reverence is an expression of love. May our Sunday celebration always be marked by faith, prayer, dignity, and joy, and may our reverence at Mass help one another recognize that we truly stand in the presence of the Lord.

Peace!