Our Lady Queen of Peace

As Fr. Thomas Carroll spoke last weekend for the annual missionary appeal, I was struck by his commitment to serve. As a priest in the Piarist order, he is stationed in the Appalachian region of Eastern Kentucky. Originally there were four priests of his order who were stationed at this school over 30 years ago. Today, he is the only priest and as you could see, his health is not very good. Despite having hip replacement and back surgery recently, he traveled here to share his message of the good news that is being lived out in their mission in Hager Hill, Kentucky. It is amazing the work that is being done in the high school that they staff. Dealing with one of the highest poverty rates in the state, education in this college preparatory high school is free. His commitment to the priesthood and education was admirable.

This weekend we are acknowledging our parish catechists who have made a commitment to education and pass on the faith to our students. I admire their dedication and commitment. In addition to our Grade Level Faith Formation (GLFF) program, which includes the sacramental preparation for the Sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation, there are also the sacramental preparation programs for baptism and marriage and the initiation sacraments of RCIA. Add in the Scripture and faith sharing groups and there are many parishioners involved in passing on the faith. They have all responded to the call of God to share the gift of faith through education. If you would like information on how you can become involved, please contact myself or Elizabeth in the parish office.

You will find the October calendar in this week’s bulletin as well as on our website. Once again there are many activities and ministries filling each day. The presentation by Trapper Jack on Mary is only a week away. I hope you can carve out an hour of your Sunday to come hear him speak. The presentation is at 6:00pm, next Sunday, October 3 in the church. Trapper Jack, in addition to having a great ‘radio voice’ is also very engaging in his style of presentation. You do not want to miss this. And for those who are too young to remember him on the local radio station, here is your chance to hear a classic radio DJ.

Also this month, on October 29th, we will be celebrating our 15th anniversary as the parish of Our Lady Queen of Peace. There will be a fall festival on the 29th beginning at 6:00pm and special acknowledgement of the anniversary at the Masses on the weekend of October 30/31. However, we will be celebrating for months. As a parish we have grown in many ways the past 15 years, but we are not finished. I am anticipating a growth spurt and you are all part of it. God has exciting things in store for us as a community and we just need to respond to God’s plan for us.

 
--Fr. John