We are official

First steps of preparing our worship space

Sunday Mass every week, an official name, first month rent paid, and a bank account:  yes we are official here in Maynardville, TN.   Bishop Stika has named us Blessed Teresa of Calcutta; we are offering the sacrifice of the Holy Mass every Sunday at Millers Chapel United Methodist Church at 8:30 a.m.  Our rental property is in a great location on Hwy 33, the main road through town, right across from Food City, the larger of two grocery stores in town.  After two Sundays, thanks to outside donations and two weeks of collections, we have paid all our bills and have money in the bank.  Yes, we are official.

It is amazing for me to realize how fast God has worked.  Br. Craig and I only arrived here on August 12, 2011.  Br Joe, who is leading the remodeling project came only thirty days ago. So in less than sixty days, we are up and running.

The enthusiasm of our local Catholics in this area is fantastic.  We have many boys and teenagers willing and wanting to serve at the Mass.  An 81 year old man is leading our worship music by his excellent harmonica playing.  A 14 year old has played Ave Maria on her flute.  People are stepping up and volunteering without any begging.   The Lord has been working in their lives and it is clear that they really wish to have a Catholic Church in this area.

Mom and son working together

Currently, we are remodeling our rental property for worship space.  We aim to be worshipping in this space no later than November 1, 2011.  Men, women, teenagers, and children have all been pitching in.  Others are providing lunch.  It is exciting!!

At the same time, as things are going along with so much joy in Union County, it is not the same picture in Grainger County.  For a number of reasons, we have yet to have an English Mass in Grainger County.  The primary stumbling block is not having a location for Mass.  We are searching and searching.  Hopefully, something will emerge soon.  We need the prayers of everyone who is reading this blog.  Your prayers will make a difference.

The future home of Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Mission

The Lord does not promise us an easy path; He just promises to be with us always.  Whether it is among the excitement of all the positive things happening in Union County or the frustration of trying to get things started in Grainger County, God is present.  Jesus is with us.  All things will happen on His timeline and not mine or anyone elses.  He sees and knows what is best for us.  Praise God for this loving assurance.

The local deanery welcoming four of the five Glenmarians new to the area.