August 6, 2022

Good morning everyone.

Just a little over a week later we are still processing the whirlwind visit of Pope Francis.  I think that Roman Catholic’s in Canada have appreciated his time among us and the words spoken and images of his serious effort were thoughtful, inspiring and moving.  I made it very obvious last week that I found the secular media bias and lack of research and respect deeply troubling and highlighted a blind spot when it comes to staff employed by media outlets where the serious lack of reporters with qualifications in the area of religious affairs was so obvious.   The reflections and homilies of Pope Francis make for some very good reading.  I have included a link to two in particular; his homily at Vespers in Quebec City in the evening and his question and answer with the media on the flight back to Rome.  https://slmedia.org/blog/pope-francis-homily-at-vespers-in-notre-dame-de-quebec-cathedral

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/251921/full-text-pope-francis-in-flight-press-conference-from-canada

It is interesting to note also that when he arrived back in Rome, he referred to his visit at the traditional Angelus reflection on Sunday and a much longer reflection at the resumption of the Papal Audience on the Wednesday.

Here in St. Andrew’s life continues at a slower pace and will do for the next few weeks.  Although, we have had more funerals than usual during the week, we have the joy of celebrating weddings and baptism each weekend.   We have enjoyed welcoming visitors to the community and new parishioners almost every week.  A note from Greg Gallant, chair of the Finance Committee this week, shared the good news that we are close to a return of 85% of our pre-covid donations which is very good news indeed.

The Pastoral Advisory Committee meets next week to report on subcommittee work and study in three areas relating especially to the beginning of a new pastoral year.  I am so grateful for their time and energy and the creative opportunities that they are proposing.  More on this in the next few weeks.  As Ken and Frank mentioned in their presentation earlier in the summer, be prepared for the big volunteer ask as we return back to normal in September.

We had a lovely gathering after the Saturday evening Mass two weeks ago to bless the installation of the bench commemorating the one hundredth anniversary of the CWL in St. Andrew’s.  And, just to remind everyone again, they still have tickets for the special lunch with Bishop Crosby following the 10.30 Mass on September 18th.  Just a gentle reminder that this is an event for all parishioners, so gentlemen, take that fine suit down and dust it off, you are very welcome as well.  The Catholic Register did a lovely piece on the anniversary which is here: https://www.catholicregister.org/item/34627-st-andrew-s-cwl-marks-century-of-caring     The Oakville Beaver also did a fine piece which is here:  https://www.thestar.com/local-oakville/life/2022/07/29/st-andrew-s-church-cwl-celebrates-100th-anniversary.html

Fr. Felix and I will be away at different times between August 15 and 25.  The Mass schedule during the week will not be impacted.  Felix is on retreat and I am taking care of some diocesan and family responsibilities.  Mass will be celebrated on Monday, August 15 at 9.00 am. to commemorate one of the churches oldest feasts (dating back to 650 ad), The Assumption of Mary.  Please join us.

Enjoy these glorious summer days and walk often in the beauty of God’s creation.

Be well,

Fr. Con