Meeting New Members of Our Pastorate - you attend Mass at whatever location you go, you are meeting new people. That's been a joy for me (a challenge too!). Sunday Mass is not just an obligation; Sunday Mass is an opportunity to come together as a community of faith. The people we are with do matter, more than we may at first realize. Make good use of the opportunity to meet and know one another at Mass. It will take time. We will likely not know every one. But each one we do meet and get to know matters! Thanks for meeting each other. I enjoy the roar as we greet one another at Mass. This is so very good. It may be one of the most important moments of the Mass. Who knows? Maybe the homily needs to be shorter to give us time to greet and get to know one another!
 
St. Stephen's Festival Last Weekend - We had a great turnout there. There was plenty of great food to go around. The open pit barbecue chicken was really enjoyable and tasty. People from around the pastorate attended. Many thanks to all the hardworking volunteers to make this event successful.  Thanks to all who turned out to support this annual event!
 
Appointments to Pastorate Commissions and Parish Councils (Finance and Parish Council) - One of my immediate pastor tasks involves appointing parish members from each of the eight parishes to serve a one year transitional term to these various bodies. I've been calling and visiting with people so I can make some solid choices to participate in these groups in the upcoming year. I'll keep you informed as decisions are made. These groups will not likely meet until later in September. Right now, there is a special need for leadership in these one year roles at St. John in Coggon. I'm asking that parish members from there call or email me this week if you might be interested. Thanks!