New Year Hopes

Our "Mary" and Jesus

2012 has rolled in and already ten days have gone by.  For whatever reason, these last two weeks from Christmas to now zoomed by and were filled with joy.  The emotions and hopes of 2012 for these two start-up missions are many.

I find it hard to realize that we only started Mass in our own worship space in November.  Already, it feels natural to pray here and be with these worshipping communities.  Somebody asked me if I was going home for Christmas and I said, "What do you mean?  This is my home! You are my family."  It is how I feel already just after a few months.

Among the many hopes of this year, is to strengthen and unify our local Catholic Communities.  Having socials, like the Epiphany parties we held in both churches helps.  It allows folks time to visit and know one another's personal stories a little bit more. 

There is a desire to increase our outreach to the boarder community.   Today after visiting with the Chamber of Commerce several options were suggested.  Also, in Grainger County several churches are working together on a meeting on how to address the drug abuse problem in the area.  We are in dialogue with the Methodist Church and the Baptist church about expanding a food pantry and our building most likely serve, at least next month, as the location for commodities. So opportunities are emerging.  In Union County, we continue to work with I-Care. Br. Craig joined a local Saturday night prayer group sponsored by four churches in trying to overcome the plight of drug and alcohol abuse here.

Flipping the pancakes

Finally, everyone is feed.

Another huge goal is just to get out and visit more people in their homes.  As a Glenmarian visiting people in their homes is one of the greatest pleasures.  When you just hang out with people, enjoy their food and company, God does also sorts of good stuff.  It is neat to watch how this works.

The newest thing taking place at Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Mission is that we will begin Spanish Mass every Sunday.  This Sunday on the 15th we will be our first time for Sunday Mass in Spanish at this mission.  Of course, this means I now have a four Masses on a weekend with Mass in English and Spanish at both places.  That too is amazing.  Four months ago there were no masses in these counties, now we will be offering four a weekend. God's love is just so very good!!

I am sure the Lord will surprise me and these communities in many ways this year of 2012.  Most likely, the plan of God will far surpass my own little human hopes.  May your New Year hopes also come be surpassed by the wonder of God's generous love and mercy!!!.

Spontaneous Christmas Play on the feast of Epiphany