Pastor’s Pen

“God has found me worthy to be a minister of His Gospel, and so when I speak, I strive to please God and not men.”     1 Thessalonians 2:4

Sunday, May 21, 2023

+Dear Friends, 

This weekend, we celebrate the great Solemnity of the Ascension of Jesus. We hear the somewhat familiar “Jesus said to His disciples” in today’s Mass. Perhaps it is too often we listen to the words as if they were a bit of historical writing and not much more. 

We might instead perk up our own ears when we hear these words. Instead of hearing “Jesus said to His disciples,” why not hear “Jesus says TO ME?” 

That would be very fitting at this celebration of the Ascension. For His words to His disciples and to us, today call for a renewed dedication to sharing the truth and life that come to us from Jesus through His Bride, the Church. The world is hungry for this life and truth. It is our privilege to share this! In my humble opinion, we Catholics have been way too timid in bearing witness to our Lord and our Faith. Far be it that we be “labeled” as intolerant or bigoted for merely standing up for our Catholic values and teachings. What results is that many Catholics simply do not say anything; do not stand up for our Church or our Faith in Jesus Christ. Don’t you think it’s time for this to change? Who cares what the world says of us? Isn’t it more important to stand with Christ than to be “popular?” 

Next weekend, our annual celebration of Easter concludes with the Solemnity of Pentecost. Jesus promised His infant Church that He would send an Advocate, One Who would remain with the Church for all ages to come. 

The Holy Spirit comes that we might have life. Life in the Holy Spirit is a life that is dedicated to continuing the life and work of Christ Jesus on this earth. As the fifty-day celebration of Easter draws to a close next weekend, let us pray that the same Holy Spirit given the first Apostles at Pente-cost, given us through the Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation, will strengthen us in our own personal efforts to live a life of service and loyalty to Christ and His Church! 

Pentecost is the perfect occasion to throw open the doors and announce the joy of Jesus Christ! The Lord remains in our midst! The Solemnity of the Ascension this weekend reminds us that our Lord Jesus has gone but remains. This is our faith; this is His Truth! 

Next weekend, the Solemnity of Pentecost, Fr. Andy Syberg, who is on staff at Brute’ Seminary, will be with us to speak about the seminary, our fine young men there and the continued need to always pray for a generous increase in vocations to the Holy Priesthood! Welcome, Fr. Andy! 

HEADS UP!! According to the roofers, the old skylight MAY BE removed beginning Monday, May 22nd, which corresponds to my being away with Fr. Jim! THEREFORE, IF THAT IS THE CASE, THERE WILL BE NO DAILY MASSES DURING THAT WEEK OF MAY 22-26! Hopefully, all scaffolding will be removed and things back in place for the weekend Masses of May 27-28 … Pentecost! If not, a way will be found in order to offer Mass!! 

We continue to pray for one another! “Come, Holy Spirit, fill the Hearts of Thy Faithful!”
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

 

Sunday, May 14, 2023

+Dear Friends, 

A VERY HAPPY MOTHERS’ DAY TO ALL THE MOMS OF OUR PARISH AND FAMILIES!! GOD BLESS YOU ALL FOR BEING THERE FOR US!! 

“Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope.” Taken from today’s second reading, this awesome summons should strike us on at least two levels. 

First of all, it is a tremendous gift for us to have this opportunity. After-all, one has to be gifted with Christian faith and hope to offer a witness to it. As members of the Mystical Body of Christ, we have this gift as our heritage and responsibility! As part of this, we need to prayerfully ask ourselves if others even notice that we are people of hope; hope that is Incarnate, Jesus Christ! 

Secondly, we need to ask ourselves if we would even share this hope with others. How hesitant are we to even make the sign of the cross before eating our meal at a restaurant? Do we think that others will “look” at us like religious fanatics or something? When someone attacks or maliciously maligns the Pope, the Church, priests, religious or Catholic practices, are we willing to step up and state the truth and defend our Faith? 

The glorious season of Easter invites us to ponder the power and mystery of the Lord’s resurrection. The power is meant for a purpose and that purpose is to enable us to respond to the Lord’s call, which we will hear again and again in the next few weeks. That call asks us to go out and spread the truth of Jesus Christ … to let others know that we have been gifted with the power of the Risen Christ to help change our lives and the lives of others! 

Ask yourself today: does anyone outside of my family know that I am a Catholic? If they have, was it in a good way and how so? If no one ever has known, why not? Not bad “homework” for the coming week! 

Just a brief “heads-up,” the Solemnity of the Ascension of Jesus has been permanently transferred in the majority of dioceses in the USA to the Seventh Sunday of Easter; this year, May 20-21. Therefore, what you may read on your calendar is not correct! 

When you read this, you will already be aware that I am not here! I am in Terre Haute celebrating the Marriage Mass for a young man who literally grew up as our next-door neighbor. Plus, now he is Catholic! See what a nice Catholic girl can do for a young man! I am sure the missionary priest assigned by the Archdiocese took good care of you! 

May the Risen Savior shine upon us all this week! God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

April 9, 2023

+Dear Friends, 

A HAPPY AND GLORIOUS EASTER TO YOU ALL!! May the Spirit of the Risen Christ shine upon you on this most joyous day! To those visiting St. Mary, Queen of Peace, a hearty welcome!! 

Today hundreds of millions around the world will gather spiritually to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. From St. Peter’s in the Vatican to Danville, IN; throughout the world, the defining event for the Church draws people from every race and culture to praise God for the mystery of Christ’s death and resurrection. 

Each year, today’s celebration of Easter allows the believer to ask in his or her heart: what difference does the resurrection of Jesus make in my daily life? In the past year, since we last gathered to celebrate this holy day, have there been moments in my life in which the risen Christ truly shone forth? Have I lived my life in the light and joy of Easter faith or remained sealed in the tomb of sin, sarcasm, and fear? We also welcome Joe and April Wolfe, who were received into the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil! Welcome to our parish family and the Catholic Faith! 

The Beloved Disciple, St. John, goes to great lengths in narrating the event of the Resurrection of Jesus. He wants us to know that, with his own eyes, he saw the burial cloths, folded neatly in the tomb. To arrange the cloths neatly, as they were found, suggests something quite unique. So, his account is precious evidence of a truly extraordinary event. The Beloved Disciple allows us to share in his own experience, to share in the moment when everything began to fit together, when he began to understand fully that death is not the end, Christ triumphs! 

Today is the day of days to allow the joy of Easter to ring through our lives! Today is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it! Alleluia! 

As we observe this Easter Sunday, always remember my friends that the Risen Lord remains in our midst, most especially in the Most Blessed Sacrament! Unite in prayer with your family spiritually to truly observe this most holy of days! The glory of the Resurrection dawns on our world in a time of continued uncertainty; but it DOES DAWN! Let us continue to pray for one another. 

CHRIST IS RISEN; INDEED, HE HAS RISEN! I wish one and all a very joyous Easter Season! God bless you all! ALLELUIA!!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

 

March 26, 2023

+Dear Friends, 

With this Fifth Sunday of Lent, the Church enters into “PASSIONTIDE.” Gradually, the sacred is removed from our sight; the statues are covered as a reminder that Christ entered into the aloneness of His Passion. Our attention is being drawn to the holy of holies: the days of HOLY WEEK and the SACRED TRIDUUM. 

Throughout this holy and graced-filled Lenten Season, our Father has been tugging at our hearts, pulling us out of our sinful behaviors and attitudes. 

Today we heard what is perhaps one of the greatest miracles related by the Gospel writers. That account, the raising of Lazarus, is the third story of conversion that forms the foundation of this holy time of repentance. 

We have witnessed Jesus call the Samaritan woman to conversion. We have seen the Lord heal the blind man and call others to conversion of heart and attitude. With today’s proclamation of the raising of Lazarus, we hear the Lord Jesus summon us out of our own graves of complacency, apathy, and reluctance to a new way of life freed from the bonds of sin and selfishness. 

We do not need to fear death. “O my people, I will open your graves and have you rise from them.” Jesus wants us to believe this! A surprising note to the raising of Lazarus is that our Lord tells Martha that believers never die because eternal life begins now, the instant we believe. “I am the resurrection and the life. Do you believe this?” 

Within a week, we will begin for the solemn observance of Holy Week and the Sacred Triduum. Perhaps we could name one “grave,” one area of our own lives that needs an infusion of new life. Ask the Lord Jesus, Who raised Lazarus from the dead, to enter your life more and more as this holiest of holy times unfolds! 

Please note in today’s bulletin the entire Liturgical Schedule for Holy Week! 

Of all the celebrations of the liturgical year of the Church, this week, this Sacred Triduum, is the most honored and most important for us as Catholics. Make it a priority for you! 

God’s blessings upon us all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

March 19, 2023

+Dear Friends, 

On this Fourth Sunday of Lent, we heard the second of three conversion stories that form the heart of this Lenten Season of repentance and renewal. It’s Laetare Sunday; from the Latin for “rejoice!” The glory of Holy Week and Easter draws near! 

Last week we witnessed the conversion of the Samaritan woman at the well. This week, the Lord Jesus calls those who are “blind”, to acknowledge that our Father can and does work in marvelous ways. 

In today’s case, the accepted belief was that people afflicted with any sort of disability or disease were so afflict-ed due to their own sins or the sins of their parents. Our Lord turns this notion upside down and calls His hearers to a new way of acceptance and belief. 

Each one of us owns some sort of spiritual blindness when you stop to think about it. Whether that be apathy, indifference, pride, despair, the lack of willingness to forgive another, all of us need the true light that only Jesus Christ can bring to us. I suppose the saddest of all are those who do not even recognize their blindness; therefore they “see” no reason for repentance and the making of a good confession. Pray God that does not include you and me! 

Perhaps this week in prayer, we could name a way that we have discovered the presence of Jesus during this Lenten Season. Not a bad suggestion for times of prayer! 

It’s hard to believe but in two weeks it will be Palm Sunday! Holy Week and the Sacred Triduum will be upon us before we know it! If your Lent has proven to be less than you wanted it to be, “… you still have Holy Week!” Let us make the good resolve now to make Holy Week and the Triduum the priority of our lives! 

God’s blessings be upon each and every one of us!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

 

March 12, 2023

+Dear Friends, 

Today we hear the first of three Gospel stories of conversion that will unfold in the next three weeks of Lent. They are proclaimed to help the Elect; those chosen and preparing for reception into the Church at the Easter Vigil, to complete their conversion to Christ Jesus and His Church. However, they are also meant for each one of us “old Catholics” as well! 

As they travel to Baptism and reception, we walk with them as witnesses to all the Lord has done for us on our own road to conversion. We walk to that same font where, at Easter, we will renew our baptismal promises, recalling the day we were joined to Christ and His Church. He is the living water that springs up to provide eternal life! 

As you leave Mass today, reflect on the Gospel story. Imagine yourself sitting at the well with the Lord Jesus. What questions would He ask you? What are the sinful traps into which you have fallen and from which you want to be freed? That’s what Lent is all about for each one of us! 

As we continue our Lenten journey, remember, Daily Mass and the Stations of the Cross are excellent means of making this a prayerful Lent for YOU! Our Stations attendance has been good. There is the Fry going on also, so a great way to take care of both body and soul! 

On a wonderful side note … this coming March 19th, the Solemnity of St. Joseph, we begin the beautiful season of SPRING! We made it through another winter. We must admit, it really wasn’t that bad this year … now watch, we will get hammered before Easter on April 12th! 

Have a prayer-full week, everyone!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

March 5, 2023

+Dear Friends, 

I would like to begin today by offering a big “Danke” to everyone who helped with the Parish Mission last weekend. Fr. Jim truly enjoyed his time with us … he always does! Thanks to all who made meals, helped with Benediction and Masses! I hope everyone who came enjoyed his time with us! Great way to begin Lent! 

Lent is a forty-day journey or repentance and conversion. Sometimes we do not know where this journey will take us. It demands of us the same kind of faith exhibited by Abram in today’s first reading. 

Abram is called to leave all that is familiar to him to go to a place that the Lord will show him. Today we are called, as throughout our lives, to leave sinful ways; ways that perhaps have become so routine and familiar that we are quite comfortable, to go to a new place the Lord has prepared for us. 

The Transfiguration of Jesus gives us just a glimpse of that new place, that place of glory where we are one with the Holy Trinity. Jesus purposefully allowed His chosen ones to have and experience this glimpse in order to strengthen them for their own “Lenten” journey of life. The same holds true for us. It is good for us to see and know what the Lord has in store for us … if we follow in His way and remain steadfast. 

Let today’s Mass call us to embark on that journey Jesus calls us to whose ending promises great blessings! 

As we continue our Lenten journey, let us continue to pray for one another. Together we walk the way of Jesus. Together we strengthen and encourage one another. 

God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

 

February 26, 2023

+Dear Friends, 

This weekend I am very happy to welcome my very good friend, Fr. Jim Koressel of the Evansville Diocese, to our parish! Fr. Jim will be leading us through our 2023 Lenten Parish Mission. There is the full schedule and further information in the bulletin. Welcome, Father Jim! 

Today’s first reading on this First Sunday of Lent, describes the moment when our first parents gave in to temptation by eating of the fruit of the tree that God had forbidden. 

In stark contrast, the Gospel relates the story of the Lord Jesus Who, weak, tired, and hungry from fasting in the desert for forty days and forty nights, resisted the temptations posed by Satan. 

The second reading presents us with a theological reflection on these two events, reminding us that through Christ’s obedience, we have been made for righteousness. As Lent now unfolds before us, let us ask for the strength to be more and more like Jesus, making the refrain of today’s responsorial psalm our own throughout this holy and sacred season: “Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.” In fact, make it even more personal by praying: “… for I have sinned.” One resource for Lent asked a pertinent question for today: What sinful attitude or behaviors do I wish to be freed from during this Lenten Season? 

Lent affords us the opportunity to explore the mystery of how sin and death entered the world because of disobedience. And, how that disobedience is “undone” by the obedience of Jesus Christ. We are asked to apply both the disobedience of Adam and Eve and the obedience of Jesus to our own personal lives. In other words, where am I “disobedient” and where am I “obedient?” It’s very personal and answerable only by ourselves. We’ve got forty days to ponder. I wonder if we will. 

What a wonderful treasure is our Catholic Faith! Let us share it! God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

February 12, 2023

+Dear Friends, 

I am writing this on Monday. Was up until 2 a.m.; can’t sleep. Temp down from 103 to 100. I want to give you all an update concerning next week. I was due to go to St. Patrick’s Retreat Cabin in Corning, IN (near Loogootee), from Sunday afternoon until Thursday evening. Now, of course, that is up in the air. IF better and have Mass this coming weekend, I may still go. That’s why the bulletin says “no Mass” each day next week until Friday. However, I do not want to push too fast, too soon. This bout has been worse than the first one. IF I am here and do not go, there will be Mass. Be sure to read any emails that come from Anna! 

In today’s Gospel, our Lord instills His divine light deeper into our hearts. He surprised the people, who normally judged others according to their outward actions, by telling them that they would ultimately be judged on a deeper level: the attitudes of their minds and hearts; according to Him and not this world’s values. 

The Lord goes on to explain that we may appear calm on the outside, all the while harboring sin and darkness in our hearts. God, however, sees everything in our hearts and sends the light of Christ to shine on this inner self, our soul. There, in the shimmering light of truth that is Jesus Christ, we can no longer deny who and what we are; perhaps who and what we have become by our sins. 

The Father alone can replace sin with humility and compassion. As a result, we are able to grow in the love that is the Holy Trinity! 

Spring is on the way! February 22nd is ASH WEDNESDAY! For me, for some reason, the coming of Lent (which does come from a word meaning ‘spring’), always signals not only the penitential season but the coming end of winter. Glory to Gott! This winter, in the area of snow, has not been that bad, but we are ready! Masses for ASH WEDNESDAY WILL BE AT NOON AND 7:00 P.M. Each Friday of Lent, Stations will be prayed at 6:00 p.m. and of course the Fish Fries will take place each Friday as well. Get ready, here it comes! 

Laudetur Jesus Christus! Have a prayer-full week, everyone!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

February 5, 2023

+Dear Friends, 

Do you seek light in your life, healing for your wounds, answers to your prayers? Who doesn’t, right? 

Isaiah tells us in the first reading today, that we shall receive all this and much more, if, and that’s a big “if,” we do the will of God. Sounds simple enough, doesn’t it? 

Isaiah spells out for us just how to do His will: share our bread with others, cloth the naked, remove false accusations and malicious speech. Each of us can do these things; it doesn’t take a nuclear physicist to figure out what he’s telling us to do. 

St. Paul tells us these things are possible only through the cross of Jesus Christ. In other words, it is the truth of Christ that emboldens each of us to live as He calls us to live. 

We make things so hard for ourselves most of the time. How so? Jesus has given us all truth, all life. These are given to us in our day through His Bride, the Church. Why do we not embrace His truth, His life? We would rather stand and knock our heads against the wall, so to speak, rather than humble ourselves and admit that Christ and His Church know best; not me. 

Christ is the Light of the world! When He calls us that in the Gospel, He isn’t saying that “it’s all about you.” We are not the Light that saves men’s souls … He is! He is telling us that we must share His light with others; bring others to Him. That is our call; that is our privilege! 

We live in a day and time when everyone thinks that he or she knows best; “I’ll follow my conscience,” if they even think in those terms. However, one’s conscience must be “formed” by the teaching of Jesus Christ and yes, His Church, in order to be formed correctly. It is not formed by various societal ideologies. As I heard a priest say one time: “…we can do things one of two ways. Either we humbly follow the way of Christ, or we do not. One way is “easy,” one is not. Pretty sage advice really. 

I realize it is a bit early but a reminder that ASH WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22ND, is quickly approaching! Our Mass schedule will be at NOON and again at 7:00 p.m. that day. Each Friday of Lent, we will offer the Stations of the Cross at 6:00 p.m. Naturally, the Fish Fries will be on the docket as well! On a cheery note … when all of these events occur, realize February is more than half over! 

God’s blessings upon you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

January 29, 2023

+Dear Friends,

During these few short weeks between “Ordinary Time” and Lent, most of the readings concern the calling of the Lord’s first disciples and Apostles.

As we hear of the call of the first apostles, let us remember the call made to US at the moment of our baptism, at moments we celebrate the sacrament of penance, at those graced moments after receiving our Lord in Holy Eucharist, the call that brings us out of the darkness of sin into the light of redemption in Christ Jesus our Lord!

Remember, this coming First Friday is the feast of St. Blaise, Bishop, and Martyr on February 3rd. We will offer the annual blessing of throats at Mass offered at 8:30 a.m. It also happens to be First Friday therefore we will be observing Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament before the start of the Mass at 8:30 a.m. Hope to see many of you there!

IMPORTANT! As you already are aware, we have been notified by the collection envelope folks that due to paper shortages and staffing issues, we will have to use emergency envelopes which they will provide for our use. They are on a table in the narthex for your usage for the months of FEBRUARY & MARCH! PLEASE, take some, and when using, include your name and envelope # on the outside of the envelope! If you wish to include the donated amount, that would be good as well. Sorry for the inconvenience, but it’s out of our control.

On a completely different note … .some of you know Dad grew up in Batesville, IN, over by Cincy. Romweber was, and remains, a vital industry there. Back in the olden days, they were known for making beautiful furniture, among of which was a line called “Viking Oak.” It featured handcrafted carving and was solidly made to say the least. My grandpa made the furniture, and my one uncle sold it. The line ceased around the 1950s. Its heyday was the 1930s to 50s. Anyway, about four years ago, I purchased a beautiful desk, mainly due to sentimental reasons. I have come to realize however, it is just WAY too big for me to move and try to fit into a condo or somewhere when the day to retire comes around. Therefore, I would like to sell it. The price is important of course but not the primary factor. As long as I can get what I paid for it, I will be happy. If you might be interested, give me an email and I will send some pictures, or you are free to see them here in the rectory. It measures about 30” high, 30” wide and I think about 55” long. You can look up Viking Oak desks on Google as well.

Stay warm, pray much and attend Mass! It will warm the cockles of your heart! God Bless You All!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

January 22, 2023

+Dear Friends, 

Have you perhaps realized that we are now more than halfway through the dreary month of January? Each season has its own particular beauty but as winter drags on, the temptation is to begin growing both impatient and perhaps even a bit grouchy! It is called life, isn’t it? You know, it is one reason I always look forward to Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent. It means springtime is coming along the way. In some ways, if we didn’t have anything to complain about, we would find something wouldn’t we?! 

The Gospel today tells us that Jesus “called them, and immediately they left their boat and their father and followed Him.” The call of the first of the Apostles, heard in today’s Gospel, is always placed at the beginning of this span called Ordinary Time as a reminder to us all that WE, TOO, have been called by Jesus and must make a response. 

I think it is true that each of us can fall into the trap of thinking that once the glory of Christmas has been celebrated, we can sort of “coast” until Ash Wednesday and Lent begins! It’s human nature I suppose; we seem to drift between big events and become somewhat indifferent to the present. As Catholics, however, we KNOW that no time in our lives is truly “ordinary.” Every day we are blessed to have Jesus among us in the Most Blessed Sacrament! Now I ask you, how could this Treasure ever be “ordinary?” Jesus calls us to live our Faith each day; not just “special” moments or seasons. You all have heard the expression that if you wonder why Jesus seems further away, who really moved? Yep, it’s us, not Jesus! 

Saint Paul, whose response to the Lord’s call resulted in a dramatic conversion, reminds us that we all “belong to Christ.” We belong to Him primarily through our Baptism, at which we were made members of His Mystical Body, the Church. We are nourished throughout our lives with His Sacred Body and Blood and cleansed of sin through His gift of Penance. What a life! What a gift! What a responsibility to live! 

This, then, is our call from Jesus. Perhaps we could reflect today and at times of prayer this week on how we have responded to the Lord’s call to “Come, follow Me.” Let’s do so! 

Give thanks for the gifts that Jesus Christ has given to His Church!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

 

January 15, 2023

+Dear Friends, 

“… called to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God …” This statement, taken from today’s second reading, sums up the message of today’s Mass. Each year, the first few weeks in Ordinary Time include passages about the call of the first disciples. 

It sometimes seems unbelievable or startling how immediately these first chosen ones of Jesus abandon everything to follow Jesus, to “belong to Christ.” And just what exactly does “belonging to Christ” entail? 

As we hear of the call of the first apostles, let us remember the call made to US at the moment of our baptism, at moments we celebrate the sacrament of penance, at those graced moments after receiving our Lord in Holy Eucharist, the call that brings us out of the darkness of sin into the light of redemption in Christ Jesus our Lord! 

I have inherited from my own Grandmother and Mom, a dislike for the months of January and February! It is NOT the possible snow or even the cold … it is the darkness. By 8 pm in the evening, I feel like telling Miss Lucy: “Come on, Lucy, it’s bedtime!” Naturally, she would be thrilled. Did you know cats sleep approximately 16 to 18 hours a day? What a life! No wonder she is jumping on and off the bed around 5 a.m. telling me to get up; it’s treat time. If I ignore her long enough, she usually settles back down. One thing I remind myself of is this … we are gaining daylight each day! 

It’s a tad early, but it is time to think of the upcoming feast of St. Blaise, Bishop and Martyr, on February 3rd! I will offer the annual blessing of throats at Mass that day, which is a First Friday. If the number of folks attending is a good number; which I hope it is, the blessing will be offered “communally” like the final blessing of Mass. If a small number, it will be done individually. 

Stay warm, pray much, and attend a Daily Mass this week! It will warm the cockles of your heart! God Bless You All!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

January 8, 2023

+Dear Friends, 

A CONTINUED VERY HAPPY AND BLESSED NEW YEAR TO ONE AND ALL!! Today, the Church celebrates the ancient Solemnity of the Epiphany. The three magi, or kings as we call them in song, spent a good deal of their lives searching for the Christ. We are privileged to find Him every day of our lives right here, in Mary, Queen of Peace Church! He is in our midst as the Bread of Life, the Holy Eucharist, the Most Blessed Sacrament! 

In today’s Gospel we find the magi, dressed in exotic clothes, following a strangely bright star through the sands of the desert. They did not know exactly where they were going (proving they were men!) or that this journey would forever change their lives. Perhaps as you gather for this glorious Feast, you, too, are searching. Let our Christ guide you, as the star guided the magi, to find and bask in His Presence! Your journey will not be across the hot and dusty sands of a desert; it may be through the pains and struggles of daily life but cross it you must! Accept your journey with great faith and humility. Let these be the “gifts” we bear to our Lord Jesus Christ! And let us pray for one another! 

On the Feast of the Epiphany, which commemorates the visit of the magi to Jesus, it is tradition that the Epiphany Proclamation is read. I reprint it here for you to enjoy: 

“The glory of the Lord has shone upon us and shall ever manifest itself among us until the day of His return. Through the rhythms and changes of time, let us call to mind and live the mysteries of salvation.” 

“The center of the whole liturgical year is the Paschal Triduum of the Lord, crucified, buried and risen, which will culminate in the solemn Vigil of Easter, during the holy night that will end with the dawn of the 9th day of April.” 

“From Easter there comes forth and are reckoned all the days we keep holy: Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the Lenten spring, the 22nd of February; the Ascension of the Lord, the 21st of May, and Pentecost, the 28th of May; the First Sunday of Advent, the 3rd of December.” 

“To Christ, Who was, Who is, and Who is to come, the Lord of time and history, be endless praise for ever and ever. Amen!” 

Many Catholic households pray to ask God’s blessing upon the family home on the Feast of the Epiphany. Printed here on this page of the bulletin, you will find the blessing prayer to be offered by the family gathered inside the front door. Afterwards, using chalk, the following is inscribed over the door: 20 + C + B + M + 23. 

Gaspar, Balthasar, and Melchior are the names given to the Three Wise Men; the Magi. Consider doing this blessing as a family! 

Once again, my sincere thanks to ALL for your prayers and remembrances offered at Christmas! I thank all who helped in any way with the Liturgies of this Holy Season. I hope and pray your New Year, 2023, is off to a great beginning! God Bless You All!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

January 1, 2023

+Dear Friends, 

A HAPPY AND JOYOUS NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL! 

As the new year of 2023 dawns, we gather to be placed under the guidance and protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God! Not a bad way to start the new year, right? 

She is the Queen of Peace, to whom we can pray for an end to violence, terror, and war. She is the Mother of Sorrows, who joins her heart and voice to ours as we lament the sufferings of life. She is Theotokas, Mother of God, through whose intercession we raise our prayers to the Lord Jesus Christ, Who reigns in eternal glory! 

As our Blessed Mother “treasured all things in her heart,” we, too, have the opportunity as a new year dawns, to treasure the gift of our Catholic Faith in all its fullness within our own hearts. Mary is our model, our witness, our finest intercessor before her Son. It is so easy to make resolutions; it is quite another to keep them though! One we can all make and keep is devotion and nearness to Mary, Our Mother. “To Jesus through Mary” is not just a pious sentiment; it is truth! Mary gave us our Savior in the Flesh for our salvation. She draws us ever closer to Him. As this new year dawns, what better resolution to make than to draw nearer to Jesus?! 

On this occasion, I would like to personally thank one and all for your kind wishes, gifts and expressions of prayer and support offered me at this holy time of year. God bless each and every one of you! God bless you all! Best wishes and prayers for a grace-filled and healthy new year!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

December 25, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

A MERRY AND BLESSED CHRISTMAS TO ONE AND ALL! 

May the celebration of Christ’s humble birth once again fill your hearts and lives with a spirit of simplicity and hope! To our visitors, welcome! I pray that everyone truly finds these holy days of Christmas to be ones of peace! 

Our Advent longing has been fulfilled as we gather to celebrate the birth of our Savior. The joy of Christmas is that the Son of God comes into our lives to proclaim eternal life. Too often we may see the celebration of the Incarnation as just a fond memory of something that happened over two thousand years ago. But always remember my friends, that Christmas is not about a thing; it is about a Person! 

Like the shepherds that once hastened to Bethlehem, we have come to this holy place to find and meet Jesus Christ. We come into His Eucharistic Presence; we come to celebrate His Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity! 

Here we embrace the eternal promise of hope in a darkened world. Jesus, Emmanuel, has come! Let us join our voices with the angelic choir who raised a song of gladness and thanksgiving! 

When our old world is in deepest darkness of the longest nights and the shortest days, Catholics dare to revel in feasts of Light! While the powers of darkness speak ever more loudly of doom, terror, and war, we celebrate with faith and hope! Christ Jesus offers us the means to not only live in but to overcome the world. We celebrate His everlasting Presence among us! 

Jesus, Emmanuel, has come! Come, let us worship Him! Let us praise our Father for the Gift beyond measure! 

Please note in today’s bulletin the Mass schedule for next weekend’s celebration of the Holy Day of Obligation, Mary, Mother of God. The only change is that Mass on Saturday, December 31st, will be at 4:00 pm rather than the usual 5:00 pm! 

Know of my every good wish for you and all the families of our parish as we celebrate Christ’s birth! God bless and keep you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

December 18, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

As we gather to celebrate the Fourth Sunday of Advent, we do so just one week away from Christmas eve and the glorious celebration of Christmas! The fourth week of Advent is always sort of “lost” in the final preparations which need to take place. As you can see, the church is already taking on the look of the Christmas Season. That’s ok; the stable was there waiting for the Holy Family, wasn’t it? 

As our Advent Season winds down and the upcoming glory that is Christmas soon begins, the readings this weekend pose an interesting question: Have I ever asked God for a “sign?” Most would say “yes, I have.” Today we hear God Himself inviting King Ahaz to “ask for a sign from the Lord,” revealing that the sign will be Mary, a Virgin, expectant with the Holy Child, Jesus, Emmanuel. 

Likewise, in the Gospel today, when St. Joseph is shocked to find that his wife is with child, he receives a sign from an angel telling him not to be afraid to have Mary as his wife. The Lord has a good sign waiting for each of us also, if we ask for it. It may not come today or tomorrow, but it will come. 

Do not expect to find your sign in superstitions, horoscopes or the like. Expect your sign from Jesus, as He reveals Himself in prayer, the holy Sacraments and most especially in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, when He becomes miraculously present in the Holy Eucharist! Don’t stay away from the Holy Mass or Confession! Jesus is calling YOU! 

Jesus Christ is Emmanuel, “God with us.” So go ahead and ask for a sign, expect it to be given and follow it like St. Joseph, with confidence, joy, and hope! 

Please note the schedule of Holy Day Masses in today’s bulletin as well as those posted on the door of the church! 

As we prepare to celebrate the glorious season of Christmas, I wish you all the peace and spirit of hope the Christ Child offers us!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

December 11, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

If your heart feels like a dry desert and God seems so very far away, then the reading today from the prophet Isaiah is meant for you. Truly, it is meant for all of us. 

He speaks to us today that God is coming (indeed, He has come!) with life-giving “rain” to save us, then the desert “will bloom with abundant flowers, and rejoice with joyful song.” 

In this holy time of Advent, Jesus wants to bless us with rain from heaven in order that our lives may bloom with hope. Are we afraid? Isaiah tells us: “Fear not!” We may think it impossible to live unafraid; at times it seems that way. If you are like me, you may have a tendency to either dwell on fond memories of the past or live in anticipation of the future. The trouble with this is that we cannot undo the past nor relive it. And most of what we think the future may bring won’t happen, just our projected fears or worries. Our Advent message is clear: live the graced moment! We are repeatedly encouraged and commanded to live without fear. God wants us to be fearless. Trust Christ and live free from fear. 

In the second reading, St. James says we may need to be patient for this trust to flower in our lives. Be patient, like the farmer awaiting his crops. “Make your hearts firm, because the coming of the Lord is at hand.” 

Finally, our Lord showers divine “rain” upon us: “The blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed.” His holy “rain” is the grace given us through His Bride the Church in the seven Sacraments. Incarnate within Himself, He offers us the means of eternal life. It’s no small wonder then, that the Church calls this Third Sunday of Advent “GAUDETE SUNDAY” … rejoice! 

As we continue our Advent journey to the glory of Christmas, let us continue to pray for one another and for all those who have asked us to pray for them at this special time of the year! 

God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

December 4, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

The Liturgy of the Word today is like the shoot that sprouts from the stump of Jesse … that wonderful image described in the first reading. God’s living word blossoms in this place and shows us the ways of peace and hope! 

St. John the Baptist announces the coming of Emmanuel, summoning us to prepare the way of the Lord. Each one of us is called to work toward the day of the Lord, when there will be no more war, no more fear. It will be a day when peace blossoms in our hearts and shapes us as true builders of Christ’s truth and peace. 

Some find it a tad difficult to blend the expectant joy of Advent with its also being a season of repentance. But, in reality, you can’t have the one without the other. It boils down to the reality of life that the more one is aware of his or her own need for continual conversion to Jesus and His truth, the more one is able to experience true joy and true peace. We stumble our ways through life in feeble attempts to find these apart from Jesus, but we know that only Emmanuel can offer us this gift. As throughout the entire holy season of Advent, we pray this day: “Come, Emmanuel!” 

Remember my friends, that our ADVENT “LIGHT IS ON FOR YOU” CONFESSIONS take place on the Wednesdays of Advent (EXCEPT THIS WEEK DUE TO THE HOLY DAY VIGIL MASS!) from 6:00 to 7:00 pm. Please take advantage of the Examination of Conscience pamphlet available in the pamphlet rake in the vestibule in preparing to come to Confession. Don’t wait until you are standing in line … you need more reflection; I know I do! Confessions will of course be offered at the usual time each Saturday of Advent. If you choose to attend another parish’s Confession times, these will be available in the bulletins as well. 

On the topic of the HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION, remember Mass times are December 7th at 7:00 pm and on December 8th at Noon! 

God’s blessings upon you all as we journey through Advent!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

August 21, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

“Try to enter through the narrow gate.” This statement, posed by Jesus in today’s Gospel, is without a doubt one of the critical statements for us in the twenty-first century. 

A great temptation of us is to fall prey to the notion that the accumulation of wealth, possessions and power is the goal to be achieved above all else. When you stop to think about it, having the blessing of being able to have things in this world, is just that, a blessing. Yet, at the same time, what really controls our lives? How generous are we with our time, talent, and treasure? What legacy do we really leave behind? 

Perhaps saying “no” once in awhile to something is a good thing. It seems that this is what Jesus is trying to get across to us when He asks us to deny ourselves and take up our cross. The very idea of doing that leaves us rather uncomfortable. For in our age, the cross is certainly NOT what we are told is important or for that matter, necessary, in order to follow Christ. I think it’s important for us to pray for one another; to pray for strength and courage to do the will of Jesus; to do all we can through Him, with Him and in Him! 

We are now officially one month from the glorious season of Autumn! Stop grumbling; I know, look what comes after! Stop and enjoy the beauty of the fall colors, the crispness of the air … when it comes. It always amazed me, and still does, that the trees are truly those beautiful colors all spring and summer long! They are “hiding” under the chlorophyll in the leaves. Like someone remarked to me not long ago, how can anyone say there is no God? Like a Master Artist, God painted the landscape of our world. You know what? He didn’t do that for His benefit; He did it for ours! I think it’s safe to say that He knew what He was doing in creation. 

May God Bless Us All!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

August 14, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

Being a follower of Jesus is not easy. At least not without all the roadblocks we put up in our lives! Saying “yes” to the teachings of Jesus Christ and His Church can cause division from those who do not embrace the Gospel. It can result in rejection, even by family members. 

The teachings of Jesus and the living of these, often flies in the face of the kind of life that TV and movies portray as fulfilling. Today’s readings remind us that, even though the life journey of a Catholic is difficult at times, help is always available! Just as Jeremiah was rescued from the well, we, too, are helped through Jesus, His Sacraments and His Church! Praise be to God for that! 

I was reading some words of the Archbishop: “There are signs that God doesn’t rate very highly for some of us. I am told that far less than 50 percent of our Catholic community attend Eucharist on the weekend. I am told that less than half of the Catholic students in our high schools and elementary schools attend Eucharist on Saturday or Sunday. One pastor told me that perhaps 100 or so youth attend weekly religious education, but if there is a social activity, say a soccer game, only 50 % show up. 

“I can usually tell when candidates for Confirmation (and their sponsors) are accustomed to being in church and when they are not. Understandable nervousness aside, when candidates and sponsors approach for the anointing at Confirmation (or for Communion) chewing gum, I know they are not! 

“It is so easy for us to forget what truly counts in our lives. No matter how much we may wish it, or how much we may try, this life is not the final kingdom. 

“Religious education and Sunday Eucharist and the sacraments of penance and reconciliation are the basic helps available for strengthening our vision of faith. For the life of me, I cannot understand why parents would sacrifice so much to offer their children the opportunity of a fine Catholic education, and then not see they attend Sunday Eucharist. 

“Apparently some parents do not attend Eucharist either. Is it because some of us do not understand that the purpose of the Mass is to give thanks and worship to God who gives us all that we have or supports us in our struggles? The Church establishes a Sunday and Holy Day obligation to attend the Holy Eucharist in order to remind us to thank God for saving us from sin and death. 

“Providing religious instruction and formation is as important as looking after our children’s need for food and clothing and good health. Religious education and Sunday Eucharist and the sacrament of penance and reconciliation are minimal aids to the life that really counts. I don’t think we should frighten our children and youth (or ourselves) into having reverence and gratitude for God, but a good dose of the sober truth about the final thing is wholesome for our spiritual health.” 

Great Advice from our diocesan shepherd! You know the Third Commandment: Keep Holy the Sabbath. Exactly what does this mean for us Catholics? The Israelites set aside the Sabbath in honor of the One God. The commandment was given by God as a constant, weekly reminder to reverence and honor the due the God who gives life, creation, and purpose. Surely, out of all the days of the week, one could be set aside for God’s will and not our own. 

Being Catholic doesn’t mean that the Third Commandment binds only the Jewish people! The Ten Commandments form the basis and foundation of all Christian teaching. For we who call ourselves Catholic, the Commandment takes concrete form in what is called the FIRST PRECEPT OF THE CHURCH: “YOU SHALL ATTEND MASS ON SUNDAYS AND HOLY DAYS OF OBLIGATION.” This first precept requires all of us to participate in the Eucharistic celebration on all Sundays (or Saturday evenings) and Holy Days. 

The obligatory character of these positive precepts is meant to guarantee to us the INDISPENSABLE MINIMUM in the spirit of prayer and communal worship. In other words, if we do nothing else when it comes to daily prayer, we need to gather together with the Church to offer the One Sacrifice of Jesus Christ! We need to pray the prayer of Christ Himself! We need to know we are not in this world ALONE! 

God did not say to the Israelites, “if time permits,” or “if you have nothing else to do.” He made it a commandment. The Church does the same today. 

The ASSUMPTION OF MARY falls on a Monday this year, and the Obligation to attend Mass is not binding this year. Although, I will be celebrating Mass at noon on Monday for anyone who would like to come. 

Here is a quick update on our Church Repair Project. Great news! Our request of a loan from the Archdiocese in the amount of $250,000 has been approved! The payback period is up to five years with an annual percentage rate of 3%. This figure may rise or fall but it is the figure at this time. Given the fact that we are almost into the beautiful Autumn Season, the contractors and project will not begin until the first of spring, 2023. We can make it through one more winter season! As a reminder, continue to use the Gold Envelopes BUT also remember my prior words that the weekly collections need to keep pace with our annual budget in order that the day-to-day costs of the parish will continue to be met! So, we are in good financial shape, the project has been approved and the loan secured. We are blessed indeed! 

May God, who has begun this good work in us, bring it to completion!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

July 31, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

Today’s Gospel is, without a doubt, one of the most challenging for American Catholics to hear. We live in a society in which the buildup of wealth and material possessions is constantly drummed into us. It’s as though these things are the ULTIMATE value. This is remarkably similar to the man in today’s Gospel who tears down his perfectly good grain barns in order to build even larger ones … only to lose his life suddenly. 

The challenge, of course, is to figure out how to use our God-given resources and blessings in ways that balance the need to ensure we will have what we truly need to survive AND the Gospel mandate to live life dedicated to the faith we say we have. It’s a delicate balance my friends. There is absolutely nothing wrong with owning things, having money in the bank, providing for one’s future. There IS, however, something wrong when these things become THE number one priority in a person’s life with little or no thought given to the fact that this life is NOT the end of the line! There IS an eternal life awaiting us; either for good or for bad. It’s up to us. 

That is the ultimate message of the mysteriously named Qoheleth in our first reading. On first reading the Book of Ecclesiastes, one can live with the assumption that there is no purpose to our lives and so just live the way you want to live whether moral or immoral. However, the true message of the Book is the same as the one in today’s Gospel: be rich in the matters of God, not man. 

I am awaiting word from the Archdiocese regarding a meeting with the Loan Board concerning our upcoming request for funds to enable us to repair the church roof and walls. I will share this important news with you as soon as it is communicated. 

Have a blessed week everyone!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

July 24, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

You know, Abraham’s bartering with God should not prompt us to do the same. Whenever you have heard this story, don’t you always wonder how Abraham had the gall to argue over and over with God? I know, all of us do this in some fashion from time to time, but I don’t honestly believe we make it a regular habit! 

The moral of the story is to convince us of God’s mercy, not His righteous anger. God had every right to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. Each time we pray the Confiteor at Mass, we strike our chest three times as we admit our sins of both commission as well as omission. God has every right to “punish” us as well if we’re honest with ourselves. 

But, as I said, the true moral is God’s almost unbelievable mercy shown to us every day of our lives. It is simply beyond us; we who like to hold on the resentment, grudges, and our “me first” mentality. 

When we pray the “Our Father,” we admit our sins while at the same time, imploring the Father’s forgiveness. I think an important line of the prayer is this: “…forgive us AS WE FORGIVE…” That’s the punch right there. Only to the extent that we forgive will we ourselves be forgiven. Sort of makes you stop and think, doesn’t it? 

We should never forget our Lord’s call: “…ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” The very best way for us to “ask, seek and knock” is in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament! Whether or not the Holy Eucharist is exposed in the monstrance or reposed in the tabernacle, prayer before our Eucharistic Lord is the very best prayer, second only to the offering of the Mass, that we can offer Jesus Christ. Stop in church and visit He Who waits for YOU! Let us always make an effort to take part in the opportunities for Adoration on Wednesdays after the 8:30 am Mass until Noon and again before the 8:30 am Mass on First Friday, especially for vocations to the priesthood and religious life. As the Sacred Heart told St. Margaret Mary: “The more you honor Me, the more I will bless you!” Now that is speaking to God! 

Have a “prayer-full” week everyone!
Father Michael Fritsch 

 

 

June 12, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

Today we are given the opportunity to ponder the mystery of God. That should keep us busy for awhile! The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us that “by sending His only Son and the Spirit of Love in the fullness of time, God has revealed His innermost secret: God Himself is an eternal exchange of love, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and He has destined us to share in that exchange.” Pope St. John Paul II once wrote: “In the communion of grace with the Trinity, man’s ‘living area’ is broadened and raised up to the supernatural level of divine life. Man lives in God and by God.” 

Today’s Solemnity of the Holy Trinity invites us to praise our Father for His mercy, kindness, and fidelity … shown us through the life, death and resurrection of His Only Begotten Son, Jesus Christ, through the power of Their Holy Spirit! 

A central tenet of Christian faith, we worship One God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit! Just think of the many times we proclaim this faith. Each time we begin prayer, we do so “In the Name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.” Whenever we enter and leave the church, we sign ourselves with the Sign of the Cross in the Name of the Holy Trinity. When we bestow a blessing, we do so in the same Name. Jesus Christ revealed to us His Father and Holy Spirit … you can’t get a higher authority than that! 

Today’s Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity is a day that reminds us to rise above the world and without hesitation, proclaim our faith! 

It has been said, “What a difference a day makes.” Well, our Lord Jesus says through His Bride, the Church: “What a difference a MASS makes!” Join us … 

May the blessing of Almighty God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be with you today, and all the days of your life!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

June 5, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

HAPPY PENTECOST! It is traditionally seen as the day on which the Church went forth to spread the Gospel truth of Jesus Christ. Because each and every one of US, no matter our vocation or state in life, no matter our age or social status, by virtue of our baptism is privileged to do the same, it is proper to speak of today as our birth to evangelization; our birth to spread the truth and life of our Catholic faith! 

The disciples of Jesus went forth from locked rooms to the big, wide world, armed with the Truth that is Jesus Christ, to speak in His Name, the message of salvation open to all peoples. It serves as a beautiful symbol for all of us to break forth from the locked rooms we often place ourselves into and walk courageously on our own journey of faith, united in the Holy Eucharist! 

One of the most profound elements of Pentecost is the fact that what once was broken and wounded has now been healed. Through Jesus Christ and His gift of the Holy Spirit, our broken and wounded lives have been recreated! On a personal level, this healing is ours for the asking! Who among us does not need healing and hope? 

Today, let us renew our dedication and commitment to the Sacrament of Penance! Jesus Christ gave His Church, through the ministry of Her priests, the power to absolve sins in His Name. That’s a pretty awesome demonstration of the presence and working of the Holy Spirit if you ask me! And so, celebrate healing! Celebrate His presence in YOUR life! 

With the celebration of Pentecost Sunday, the Church officially marks the close of the glorious season of Eastertide. We will celebrate next weekend the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity followed by the awesome Solemnity of Corpus Christi. 

May the Holy Spirit bless, console, and strengthen us all! “Come, Holy Spirit, renew the face of the earth!”
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

May 29, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

This weekend, we celebrate the great Solemnity of the Ascension of Jesus. We hear the somewhat familiar “Jesus said to His disciples” in today’s Mass. Perhaps it is too often we listen to the words as if they were a bit of historical writing and not much more. 

We might instead perk up our own ears when we hear these words. Instead of hearing “Jesus said to His disciples”, why not hear “Jesus says TO ME, right here and right now?” 

That would be very fitting at this celebration of the Ascension. For His words to His disciples and to us, today call for a renewed dedication to sharing the truth and life that come to us from Jesus through His Bride, the Church. The world is hungry for this life and truth. It is our privilege to share this! In my humble opinion, we Catholics have been way too timid in bearing witness to our Lord and our Faith. Far be it that we be “labeled” as intolerant or bigoted for merely standing up for our Catholic values and teachings. It seems that everyone can profess and believe whatever they desire … except us! What results is that many Catholics simply do not say anything; do not stand up for our Church or our Faith in Jesus Christ. Don’t you think it’s time for this to change? Who cares what the world says of us? Isn’t it more important to stand with Christ than to be “correct or popular?” 

Next weekend, our annual celebration of Easter concludes with the Solemnity of Pentecost. Jesus promised His infant Church that He would send an Advocate, One Who would remain with the Church for all ages to come. 

The Holy Spirit comes that we might have life. Life in the Holy Spirit is a life that is dedicated to continuing the life and work of Christ Jesus on this earth. As the fifty-day celebration of Easter draws to a close next weekend, let us pray that the same Holy Spirit given the first Apostles at Pentecost, given us through the Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation, in fact through all seven Sacraments, will strengthen us in our own personal efforts to live a life of service and loyalty to Christ and His Church! 

Next weekend of Pentecost is “extra special” for our Archdiocese. On the 4th, we have two men being ordained to the sacred priesthood! Soon to be Fr. Matthew Perronie from St. Malachy and Fr. Michael Clawson, from my home parish of Annunciation, will become our newest priests! 

What a glorious day for the Archdiocese! This week is special for me personally. This week, I celebrate my 37th anniversary of ordination! Old age is creeping in. Let us continue always to pray for a generous increase in vocations to the priesthood and our seminarians! 

We continue to pray for one another!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

May 22, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

Today our Lord Jesus tells us that the Holy Spirit will remind us of everything that He taught; more on that a bit later. As the holy Feast of Pentecost draws near, let us pray for an ever-stronger outpouring of the Holy Spirit in our hearts and souls. We need the Holy Spirit to keep reminding us (there’s that word again) of all that Jesus did and taught. 

Just think of last weekend’s commandment from our Lord to “love one another” and then look around at the people in your life … how you doing? This is where the “reminding” comes in. 

How did our Lord intend and establish that we are “reminded” of all that He taught us? Did He just leave this up to individual whim and belief because we think the Holy Spirit told us something? Did He simply ascend into heaven; leaving us to figure out for ourselves what He taught? I don’t think so! 

We have been gifted with the authority and wisdom of the Magisterium, the official teaching authority of the Church, to lead, guide and comfort us unto eternal life. Jesus never would leave His Bride alone to blunder through the centuries trying to find Her way. He gave the gift of the Holy Spirit to His Bride! And He gave St. Peter and his successors, with the bishops in union with him, the Holy Spirit to lead and guide them, as they in turn lead and guide us. Everyone, every Catholic, is both guided by, and answerable to, the Holy Spirit led Magisterial teaching of the Church. What a gift and what a blessing! Praised be Jesus Christ! 

“The glory that is May.” I know I am not making up that old saying! It is certainly true, however. Look about us and see the splendor of God’s work. We do not worship nature; we are not pantheistic. We don’t bow down and pray to trees and bushes. We DO bow down before the Presence of Christ Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament! You know I love this saying of St. John Vianney: pointing to the tabernacle in the little church in Ars, France, with tears in his eyes, he would proclaim: “He is there!” Talk about faith in action. May we imitate him always! 

May the good God bless and keep us all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

May 15, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

This weekend, I welcome my very good friend, Fr. Jim Koressel, back to St. Mary’s. He always enjoys his time with us here. How can he not? We are a great parish! I mentioned before that the two of us are heading out for a trip … first one since pre-Covid back in early February of 2020. It’s safe to say, we both are looking forward to it! 

As the Easter continues to unfold, even with the “Alleluias,” life can be tough. We live in an imperfect world, one marked by terrorism, war as well as the “ordinary” crosses that each individual may carry. 

To this imperfect world and life of testing, the Lord Jesus proclaims in today’s Gospel: “I give you a new commandment: love one another.” We can look with sadness upon the world today; a sadness born from the knowledge that people simply do not love one another. 

As followers of Jesus Christ, we must not allow this sadness turn into despair, for if this holy Eastertide gives us anything, it gives us hope for our world and our lives as well. The commandment of Jesus begins in our own heart. It is within our heart that commitment and growth in our Lord Jesus comes about. However, we must realistically admit that this can sometimes feel overwhelming, don’t we? 

I was reading a reflection on this weekend’s Liturgy of the Word, and it ended with this: Name a time when you found it difficult to love someone. How did you overcome this? A good thought for us all. 

Have a blessed week, everyone!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

May 1, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

Our first reading recounts that the Apostles received what amounts to a court order to cease and desist speaking in the Name of Jesus. Their response? They left “rejoicing that they had been found worthy to suffer dishonor for the sake of the Name.” 

I think we stand in awe at the depth of the Apostles’ faith and courage, don’t we? We also need to pray that our own faith will be strengthened! 

The Lord Jesus questions each one of us today, as He did St. Peter, asking us time and time again “do you love Me?” We know that either answer, “yes” or “no,” bears consequences but most especially if we answer in the affirmative. Those consequences are all around us and are all about loving and feeding those whom the Lord entrusts to our care. 

Strengthened by Christ’s Holy Spirit in the Sacraments, instructed and guided by the teaching of the Church, we are, like those fish, brought to Christ by the Church, symbolized here by the disciples. Brought to Christ, Who then teaches us, as he taught St. Peter, that to remain in communion with Him, we must look after and love one another; nurturing one another in the beauty of our Catholic Faith! 

This weekend, we have a beautiful example of this. Parents, entrusted with the development and nurturing and practice of the Catholic faith in the lives of their children, will present their sons and daughters for their reception, for the first time, of the Sacrament of Holy Eucharist. That joyous celebration continues the wonderful journey in the spiritual development of these chosen young people. 

Let us congratulate and pledge continued prayer for: Greyson Baer, Cormick Claxton, William Daniel, Charlotte Dillon, Camille Maraldo, Vincent Spence, and Carson Tietje! May our Eucharistic Lord bless them always! 

God bless us all as we continue on our Easter journey of faith!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

April 24, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

I wish you all a continued joyous EASTER SEASON! We celebrate the glory of Easter until the Solemnity of Pentecost. Keep the Easter joy going strong in your heart! 

Each year on this Sunday following Easter, we hear the Gospel story of St. Thomas. He has become synonymous with someone experiencing doubts, fears, and anxiety in life. He refused to believe that the other Apostles had seen the risen Jesus. 

“Unless I see the mark of the nails in His hands and put my finger into the nail marks and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.” 

When you stop to think about it, none of us gathered here for Mass has ever had an encounter of seeing the risen, physical Jesus either … if you have, let me know! In faith, we gather each week, and even daily, for the celebration of the Mass to be caught up once again in the love that flows from the death and resurrection of our Eucharistic Christ! 

We need to remember the words of Jesus to St. Thomas: “Blessed are they who do not see yet believe.” Let us turn to St. Thomas, praying that through his intercession our faith will remain strong, that through the grace of the Sacraments, it will be made ever stronger! 

This Sunday following Easter is designated Divine Mercy Sunday. Saint Faustina, a young nun of Poland had the vision we see depicted in all images of the Divine Mercy of Jesus. The words “I trust in You!” are placed below the feet of Jesus. How very appropriate that, during the glory of the Easter season, we proclaim and celebrate the Mercy that is Jesus Christ! We pray that the Divine Mercy that is Jesus will always be with us! 

Did anyone notice in my column last week when I thanked everyone who helped in any manner with the beauty of Holy Week and Easter, that I mentioned “Ed” and music folks? Of course, I meant RICARDO! Put it down to old age! Ricardo and the choirs did an awesome job didn’t they? They practiced extra hard for all the various Liturgies … and it showed! Danke, bitte, Ricardo!! 

***An early note concerning the Sunday, May 1st 10:30am Mass: We will be celebrating First Holy Communion for our young boys and girls. It is always a joy to celebrate our young boys and girls making their First Holy Communion! It SHOULD remind us of our own First Communion, for some, many years ago. If we Catholics truly understood the Gift received in the Holy Eucharist, we would die from joy! As the saints have said: “The earth could better survive without the sun, than without the Eucharist!” 

May you continue to bask in the glow of Easter joy! God bless!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

 

April 17, 2022

+Dear Friends,

A HAPPY AND GLORIOUS EASTER TO YOU ALL!! May the Spirit of the Risen Christ shine upon you on this most joyous day! To those visiting St. Mary, a hearty welcome!

Today hundreds of millions around the world gather to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. From St. Peter’s in the Vatican to Mary, Queen of Peace in Danville, Indiana; throughout the world, the defining event for the Church draws people from every race and culture to praise God for the mystery of Christ’s death and resurrection.

Each year, today’s celebration of Easter allows the believer to ask in his or her heart: what difference does the resurrection of Jesus make in my daily life? In the past year, since we last gathered to celebrate this holy day, have there been moments in my life in which the risen Christ truly shone forth? Have I lived my life in the light and joy of Easter faith or remained sealed in the tomb of sin, sarcasm, and fear?

The Beloved Disciple, St. John, goes to great lengths in narrating the event of the Resurrection of Jesus. He wants us to know that, with his own eyes, he saw the burial cloths, folded neatly in the tomb. To arrange the cloths neatly, as they were found, suggests something quite unique. So, his account is precious evidence of a truly extraordinary event. The Beloved Disciple allows us to share in his own experience, to share in the moment when everything began to fit together, when he began to understand fully that death is not the end; Christ triumphs!

Today is the day of days to allow the joy of Easter to ring through our lives! Today is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it! Alleluia!

Today, our parish congratulates our chosen Elect who entered into full communion with the Catholic Church: Braden Cooler, Robert Lilly, and Johazelis Velez. Let us continue to pray for them as they begin their life within the Catholic Faith!

I would like to personally thank ALL those who helped in any way with the planning, decorating, and supporting connected with Holy Week and the Sacred Triduum. It takes much work to decorate, practice and prepare for these most holy days. Your dedication, often unknown, is invaluable! Thanks to Ed and all the vocalists and musicians for their hard work and prayer in adding to our Liturgies!

Again, I wish one and all a very joyous Easter Season! God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

April 10, 2022

+Dear Friends,

This weekend, the Catholic Church throughout the world and the majority of all Christiandom, enters into the most significant days of the entire liturgical year: HOLY WEEK.

On PASSION or PALM SUNDAY, we offer a joyous demonstration of our loyalty to Christ our King. The Mass, however, with its solemn reading of the Passion, is under the shadow of the cross. “Hosanna to the Son of David!” is thus followed very soon by the cry, “Crucify Him!” In many Christian lives, too, the recognition of Christ, by attendance at Mass, is contradicted by sinful acts which nail Him once more to the cross. This weekend is the time to sincerely renew once again our loyalty to Jesus Christ.

On Tuesday, many throughout the Archdiocese will gather at the Cathedral to celebrate the CHRISM MASS, beginning this year at 2:00pm. At this Mass, the holy oils to be used throughout the year in the celebration of the Sacraments will be blessed and distributed to all parishes. At this Mass, the priests of the Archdiocese renew our ordination promises. It is a beautiful symbol of our unity and oneness with the larger Church, represented by Archbishop Thompson.

On Thursday, the Catholic Church throughout the world begins the SACRED TRIDUUM. The days of HOLY THURSDAY, GOOD FRIDAY, and the EASTER VIGIL are the holiest and most profound days of the Christian soul.

HOLY THURSDAY solemnly inaugurates the “Triduum during which the Lord died, was buried and rose again.” On this day our Lord instituted the Holy Eucharist; at the Last Supper He prepared the Sacrifice-Meal that would through the ages unite His members in Himself. We are gathered with the Apostles, to receive from Jesus the great gift of His own Flesh and Blood. Through the ministry of the priesthood, Christ remains present at every Mass. We solemnly commemorate the institution of the Sacrament of Holy Orders as well. On this night, we also hear of Christ’s humble service of washing the feet of the Apostles. Following the Mass, the Holy Eucharist is borne through the church to the Altar of Repose for private adoration and prayer until 9:00PM.

In the garden, Christ asked, “Could you not wait one hour with Me?” On this night, let us join with Him in prayer!

GOOD FRIDAY solemnly commemorates Jesus Christ’s sacrifice FOR US! We listen once more to the story of His Passion and then venerate the instrument of our salvation, His Holy Cross. We pray for the needs of the world and finally receive our Lord in Holy Communion. Following the liturgy, until the Easter Vigil, Christians experience something of the great void felt by the Apostles after the death of the Lord. The church is locked; the holy Tabernacle is empty.

We gather in the gathering darkness on the night of the EASTER VIGIL to celebrate the Passover of the Lord! The light of Christ dispels the darkness of sin in our world and in our hearts as we welcome the newest members of the Church through Baptism and Profession of Faith. We renew our own baptismal vows and join in celebration of the Resurrection.

As your pastor, I invite you all to join in the observance and celebration of the SACRED TRIDUUM! These days take priority in our lives; we leave the watches behind and touch eternity. Please note the times of all Masses and Liturgies of this most Holy Week in the bulletin as well as on the doors of the church. Let us join in solemn prayer and keep vigil; for the Passover of the Lord is at hand! God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

April 3, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

Traditionally, PASSION-TIDE begins with this Fifth Sunday of Lent.

The statues (except for St. Michael because he is so new we do not have a cover for him!) are covered as a visible means of the holy and glorious being withdrawn as our Lord faces the heart of His Passion and ultimate death. On the Fifth Sunday of Lent, St. Augustine contrasts the writing of the Law of Moses with what our Lord writes here on the ground. At Sinai, the Law was written on tablets of stone.

Stone is excellent for recording…we still speak of something “set in stone” for example. It speaks of permanence and durability. Stone, however, also possesses the hint of death; think of headstones in a cemetery for example. Stone can be used to kill: we see in this reading of the Gospel the intention of the people to stone Jesus. So, Jesus writes on the ground. Unlike stone, earth has the ability to bring forth life and produce good fruit. Stone can identify and make permanent a record of our sins; in a metaphorical sense of the word. Jesus desires to write of Divine Mercy on our hearts, that we might produce good fruit.

Today Jesus gives the adulterous woman a chance to turn away from sin and turn back to God. A remarkable part of the encounter is that she admits her sin; we often do not. We have a tendency to blame others; either personally or societal, for OUR sins. Jesus today offers us the same opportunity He offered the adulterous woman. Shall we take it?

Perhaps your personal Lent hasn’t been that great. Has it? Passion-tide is an excellent time to “reignite” and prepare for the glory of Easter. Use these last precious weeks of Lent to truly prepare for the Holy Triduum of Holy Thursday, Good Friday and the Easter Vigil.

 May God guide our beloved Church!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

March 27, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

Once again, this time of Lent, the Church observes Laetare Sunday. From the Latin meaning “rejoice,” it is a day to pause for a brief moment in our Lenten journey to rejoice over the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, which we celebrate most especially during the Sacred Triduum, ending with Easter Sunday. The solemn violet vestments are laid aside and the beautiful rose ones take their place. When I was younger, we always looked forward to Laetare; it meant Easter was on the way!

The first reading reminded us that the Father removed the reproach of Egypt from the Israelites. In other words, He removed their subjection to slavery, misery, and years of oppression.

Like the ancient Israelites, we, too, have been freed, through the holy Sacraments of Baptism and Penance, from the oppression of sin and death. As we hear in the familiar parable of the Prodigal Son in today’s Gospel, “your brother was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.” And that is definitely cause for our rejoicing!

St. Augustine has an interesting notion: the elder son’s resentment at the mercy shown his irresponsible younger brother, shows that what truly upsets him is not his brother’s sin, but his own missed opportunities to sin! Naturally, this entire parable prefigures the passion, death and resurrection of our Lord. So, whenever our Father sees a repentant sinner coming back to life in grace, He sees His Beloved Son. No small wonder God “runs” out to meet us in the holy Sacraments!

St. Paul today expresses this as he says: “Whoever is in Christ is a new creation: the old things have passed away.”

Today, a day of rejoicing, focus on the ways that you have moved from the oppression of sin to a life of freedom. Have you? Through the Most Holy Eucharist and Penance, have you experienced being a “new creation?”

Remember to gather on Friday evenings at 6:00 pm to offer the Stations of the Cross! I want to thank the various folks who have been leading the Stations thus far this Lent, offering me the opportunity to be downstairs and help with the fish frys! Service to others comes in many forms…even frying fish or whipping up batter! We know that many of our folks are away enjoying Spring Break…goody for them! Pray for everyone’s safety and safe return.

I realize this is long but I want to offer a reflection. How many vocations has each individual parish fostered to the holy priesthood? Put very bluntly, how many priestly vocations have been encouraged, nurtured and supported from Mary, Queen of Peace in let’s say, the past thirty years? How many priests have come from MQP? The answer? None. I am the last priest ordained from Annunciation in Brazil and that’s now thirty-seven years ago!

Praised be Jesus Christ, Annunciation has a young man being ordained this June! I mention this fact for an important reason. As a parish, we need to truly encourage our boys and young men to seriously pray about “Jesus, what do You want me to do with my life?” Parents and grandparents need to encourage their sons and grandsons to pray about the priesthood, encourage and support a vocation! At every Mass offered here at MQP, we have a petition for more priestly vocations. Each First Thursday-Friday, we offer Adoration for the same intention. BUT, more can be done! Parents, talk to your sons! Encourage them to pray about the priesthood! I mean, seriously! God works in mysterious ways. There ARE priestly vocations here at MQP! Let us support them!

Have a prayer-full Lenten week everyone. Offer Jesus something special this week…see you at Daily Mass!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

March 20, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

The very familiar story about Moses and the burning bush reminds us today that our God is shrouded in mystery. (And that’s a good thing!) Our life’s journey, as does our journey during the holy time of Lent, has only one goal: eternal life with Jesus Christ.

The way to God is made clearer and clearer each time we gather to celebrate the Mass in this holy place we call St. Mary, Queen of Peace. The way is made clearer and clearer each time we celebrate Penance. Jesus is The Way.

We listen, hopefully like eager children hearing a fascinating story for the first time, to words that bring us closer to Jesus Christ. The Lord Jesus’ words today remind us that the more we come to know Him, the more we are expected to respond in word and deed.

Jesus makes it quite clear in today’s Gospel that we are all sinners and have oftentimes fallen short of His way. The wonderful thing is that He offers us the means by which to return to Him and to His Bride, the Church!

Perhaps we could each reflect and name one way that we have grown closer to Jesus during this season of Lent.

As we continue our Lenten journey, remember that the Stations of the Cross are offered each Friday of Lent beginning at 6:00 p.m. Of course, the Fish Frys continue as well! I tell you, the volunteers who make sure these events take place are to be commended. Without them, things would not happen!

And, certainly not the least….WELCOME TO SPRING!! Gott is good. While the temperatures may still go up and down, we’ve officially made it! Enjoy the simple things like flowers starting to bloom, trees budding forth, and the sunshine. Even in the midst of trial and world unrest, our God is with us. Let us continue those good Lenten resolutions!

 God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

March 13, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

“Your presence, Lord, I seek.” These words from today’s responsorial psalm sum up the mindset of Lent. Amid the many distractions that can draw our attention away from God, we come to this holy place called St. Mary, Queen of Peace to not only seek, but find, Christ’s eternal Presence in the Most Holy Eucharist! His Eucharistic Heart will transfigure our hearts and minds to be as His own!

In the person of Christ’s priest, in the proclaimed word, in the gathered assembly but above all, in the Holy Eucharist, Jesus is present with and for us. What a gift! Let us open our eyes, our ears and our souls to the transfiguring love and compassion of Jesus on this Second Sunday of Lent!

Don’t forget that the Stations of the Cross are offered each Friday of Lent beginning at 6:00 p.m. It’s a great opportunity for families to pray together in Lent. Also, remember “The Light is On For You” each Wednesday, from 6 to 7 p.m. The Saturday regular confession schedule will continue as well. The bulletin also contains the Confessional times for both St. Malachy and St. Susanna as well. Plenty of opportunities!

As we continue our Lenten journey, let us continue to pray for one another daily. Offer little sacrifices for the parish and individuals you may know who need heightened prayer. As we shared the story of Christ’s Transfiguration today, we pray that we, too, may experience a transformation in our hearts during this most holy time of year! And let us continue to offer fasting and prayer for the gallant Ukrainian people. May Our Lady of Victory and St. Michael grant them protection and peace!

 God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

March 6, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

We have begun. The holy season of Lent is with us. At the beginning of Lent, the Holy Scriptures summon us to a posture of remembrance, reflection, and penance.

Just as the Israelites of old remembered the mighty acts that the Lord their God had done for them, so, too, are we called to remember what God has done for us.

As we continue our Lenten journey, let us focus on the gift that this holy season can be for each one of us. We celebrate the gift of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection! We grow closer to the Lord Jesus, Who suffered, died, and rose to new life to save us from sin and opened the way to everlasting life!

A reminder to all: “The Light is on for You” will be held each Wednesday of Lent from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm! It is a perfect time to come to holy confession and be reconciled to Christ and His Holy Church!

Stations of the Cross will be celebrated each Friday of Lent at 6:00 pm. Come as a family and share in Christ’s journey to the cross for our salvation! After, drive through and enjoy our Lenten Fish Frys for a freewill donation! Once again, I have already heard that the batter will be fantastic!!

As we journey together this Lent, let us keep one another in prayer. Pray that we will grow closer to Jesus in the Eucharist, in reconciliation, and in one another.

God bless one and all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

February 27, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

As we gather for Mass, we stand on the threshold of the holy Season of Lent. We pray that the Lord will lead us into the desert and speak to our hearts. We will enter the Lent of repentance. The word of the Lord will not be written on stone, but upon our hearts.

Lent will call us to be honest: we are sinners in need of our Father’s unending and boundless mercy. As we gather today, let us recall the example of Jesus. May His Holy Church be poured into new wineskins. Let us be those new skins!

As the ashes on Ash Wednesday are placed on our foreheads, let us ask the Lord to make this season of Lent a time of real and true renewal for us. Let us remember that none of us walks the journey of conversion and repentance alone. Together, we open our hearts and ears to hear Jesus. Together, we ask for forgiveness. Together, we are called to new life! One of the real dangers we all face is taking what I call the easy approach to sin.

Beginning in the 1960s, most of what we heard from in homilies and other sources was the “communal or societal aspect of sin.” While this is certainly true, what unfortunately happened with an almost complete loss of “personal sin.” Where does societal sin come from if not personal sin? Folks began to have the impression that it is our culture and society that are at fault, i.e., sin, and not ourselves. We can readily see the results in the Church and surroundings today. It seems that a majority no longer feel any sense of sin in their lives … it’s all society’s fault. Thus, a catastrophic drop in Catholics opening their lives and souls to the grace of the Sacrament of Penance. This, coupled with the originally good idea of communal penance services, has resulted in the sad fact that many, many Catholics think the only time one needs to “go to confession,” is Advent and Lent. Wrong! I ask you: Can anyone honestly and humbly say they commit no serious sin except right before Advent and or Lent? I don’t think so. I already hear some saying “he’s telling us we are all terrible sinners.” No, I am not. What I am saying is we need to take a good humble look at our lives and, according to the teachings of Jesus and His Church, ask “Do I need to go to confession?” Let’s ponder that as we soon begin Lent.

Elsewhere in today’s bulletin, you will find the fasting and abstinence regulations for Lent. Remember, ALL Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence (no meat products). Of course, Mass will be available and there is no better prayer than the Mass to offer! We will also offer the Stations of the Cross each Friday evening beginning on March 4th. Through our Lenten practices, may we all grow closer to Jesus and His Eucharistic Heart! On Wednesdays of Lent, from 6 to 7 p.m., confessions will be heard. Of course, confessions are heard on Saturdays from 3:45-4:30 as usual. Unfortunately, we could only buy 50 copies of the Lenten Magnificat booklets this year due to shortages. If you would like to have one to use, please stop by the offices! “Get ‘em while they’re hot!” We will also have in the bulletin, the times for added Confessions at both St. Malachy and St. Susanna.

Next weekend, we celebrate with the other parishes throughout the Archdiocese, the RITE OF SENDING AND ELECTION. By this rite, the catechumens and candidates of the Church in the RCIA become the Elect. They are sent forth from the parish to be presented to the Archbishop at the cathedral. Today, we welcome anew and congratulate our catechumens and candidates:

Catechumens: Braden Cooler, Angelina Hacker, Robert Lilly
Candidates: Paula Meluch, Johazelis Velez

Know of our continued prayers and support as you journey to Easter joy!

Note the time of Masses for Ash Wednesday: twelve noon and 7:00pm, March 2nd.

 God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

February 20, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

In today’s Gospel, there’s no denying Our Lord’s words and command: “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” Can’t get much more clear than that, right?

Imagine our lives and world if everyone would live this commandment of Jesus. Yet, too often we don’t pray for our enemies, we neglect the needy, we hesitate to show another forgiveness and mercy … even if they don’t respect us. Today, our prayer is to embody this command of Our Lord Jesus Christ!

As we gather for Mass, we stand on the threshold of the holy season of Lent, beginning March 2nd. Lent will call us to be honest and humble: we are sinners in need of our Father’s unending and boundless mercy.

As the ashes on Ash Wednesday are placed on our foreheads, let us ask the Lord to make this season of Lent a time of true renewal for us. Remember that none of us walks alone on the journey of conversion and repentance. Together, we open our hearts and souls to hear Jesus. Together, we ask for forgiveness. Together, we are called to new life!

In next weekend’s bulletin, you will find the regulations for fasting and abstinence for Lent. Remember, ALL Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence … no meat products. We also will have available once again, a limited amount (due to a shortage) the annual Lenten prayer booklets for your usage. We will also be celebrating the Station of the Cross each Friday at 6:00 pm beginning March 4th.

Last but certainly not least, our annual Lenten Fish Frys begin on Friday, March 4th! Again this year, they will operate as a “Drive-Through” event. Without a doubt, OUR Fish Frys are the BEST in town! The time will be the normal 4:30 to 7:00 pm. As a reminder enter from the Mackey Road entrance and exit via the Main Street drives!! It has proven to be very successful this way. The Fish Frys will be each Friday of Lent with the exception of Good Friday, April 15th. Now I suppose if we have a weird March blizzard or something, we may have to cancel but that should be behind us by that time!

 God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

February 13, 2022

+Dear Friends,

Last weekend we heard the parallel stories of conversion of Isaiah, St. Paul, and St. Peter. This weekend we hear parallel discourses concerning those who put their hope and trust in the Lord and those who do not.

The prophet Jeremiah reminds us all that those who turn their hearts away from the Lord will be cursed. Not exactly something one wants to hear, right? The one who trusts in the Lord will be blessed and blossom like a tree planted near the waters of a stream.

In the familiar Gospel passage read today, we hear the Beatitudes. I like to think of them as “attitudes of being.” These inspiring words remind us that everything changed the day we were baptized into Christ and His Church. If we choose to continue to trust in the Lord, we are counted among the blessed.

One often finds the Beatitudes being misinterpreted. When Jesus speaks of the “poor in spirit” for example, He’s not speaking simply of the physically poor. When we speak of the “meek, who will inherit the earth,” He’s not speaking of a cowering, whimpering mouse. In these and the other Beatitudes, Our Lord is speaking of the practice of the faith. He’s speaking of the need to stay the course; to be courageous in the proclamation of the faith; to be humble and to rejoice when persecuted for our faith. Placed within this context, it’s easy to see and understand what Our Lord was intending to say.

One of the great Patristic Fathers of the Church, St. Gregory of Nyssa, wrote: “No matter how hard I try, when it comes to God’s power or wisdom or goodness, I cannot be like God. But to make myself poor, in the sense of these Beatitudes, to empty myself of all my egoism and selfishness, that is an option, a choice I can make, if I will.”

Perhaps as we draw ever closer to Ash Wednesday and the start of the holy season of Lent on Wednesday, March 2nd, we could prayerfully consider how we have turned our hearts to the Lord Jesus, placing our trust in Him. How are we doing? How are you doing? How am I doing? A reminder … Masses on Ash Wednesday will be offered at Noon and 7:00 pm. The first Stations of the Cross, on March 4th, will be at 6:00 pm.

Have a prayer-full week, everyone!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

February 6, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

Most of us would regard good memory as a blessing. Good what? Oh, yeah, good memory! Yet a great Doctor of the Church, St. John of the Cross, warned that spiritual growth requires memory to be brought under strict control. Why?

For St. John of the Cross, an undisciplined memory churns up past sin, recalling the momentary enjoyment/ pleasure … and the lasting regret. So it was with the prophet Isaiah and St. Peter. Just when growth in the spiritual way beckons, sin rises from the dust of memory, points an accusing finger, and asks, “Are you sure you desire to grow closer to God, with me in your baggage?”

When are we most likely to understand the full horror of our sins than when we truly appreciate the compassion and mercy of God? We overcome those sad realities when we have offended God through the virtue of hope, telling us to look not back, but forward to the life in and of Christ.

We should not forget our sinful past, but our past must be just that: past. Remembering what Jesus in effect told St. Peter: “Fear not the past. I have something better for you.” Step out into the deep and trust in Christ. Now, that is a good memory to hold on to!

This year is somewhat unique in that we are in the midst of a rather elongated or extended period of “Ordinary Time.” Most years, Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent, appears on the horizon much sooner than this year… March 2nd. As a matter of fact, one month from today will be the First Sunday of Lent. I always like it when Lent comes early; it tells me that Easter and Spring are also drawing closer!

On behalf of the parish, I wish to offer a BIG Danke Schoen to all the guys who wish to remain anonymous who worked SO hard in remodeling the basement of the kirche! We have much more room now for seating, more storage, nicely painted walls, waxed floor, and new ceiling tiles are coming. The current ones are nearly forty years old and look it. These guys have saved the parish much monies by their generous volunteering of their time and talent! Without such volunteers, so much in a parish would not be able to be afforded or accomplished. Again, guys, thanks so much!

 Have a prayer-full week, everyone!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

January 30, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

Today we hear St. Paul’s hymn extolling love. This particular passage of Scripture, because it is used almost universally for marriage ceremonies (believe me, it is used at most marriage liturgies!) can become almost too familiar to us. It becomes syrupy and sentimental which is not its meaning.

We need always remember that St. Paul uses this beautiful thought in comparison to Christ’s love for His Bride, the Church, and how we all are to mirror this sacrificial love. It’s not about starry-eyed naïve expectations at all. It’s about the nitty-gritty, day in day out, yes, joy-filled life Jesus offers us and calls us to imitate. I suppose it could be summed up in another very familiar Scripture quote: “Do unto others as you would have done unto you.” That sort of says what St. Paul is trying to get at. And, I guess we have to honestly admit that we will have times in truly living up to his words. It’s all about how we try; not how we fail.

I need to move from the lofty heights of “love” to the mundane … but they are a part of our lives as well. Members of the parish have known since the time of its construction, that our church building leaks. Over the course of al-most forty years, various efforts have been made to correct and fix these issues. The time has come to face the reality that something major must be done. With the agreement and input of the Archdiocesan Architect, we are moving ahead with finding a permanent solution. While initially it was thought to have everything addressed and finally resolved would be around the $250,000 range, I must tell you it will be much higher. We have structural damage to the walls on all sides of the church. We have water making its way through the exterior brick and thus the white you see on the interior gray brickwork. Look at the large wooden beam on the west side of the nave, above the statues and you will see the damage done due to years of rain soaking in. Thank God, the beam itself does not need to be replaced. “Okay, Father, how much are we talking about?” First, sit down. Initial estimates are somewhere around the $565,000 mark. I know, I hear you. BUT it must be done. Band-aids won’t work any longer; the church needs surgery. We will utilize our Gold Envelope monies, and I will be applying for a free grant from the Archdiocese. However, we will either have to use some funds from our savings accounts or seek and be granted a loan from the diocese as well. While I have no final figures at present, I deemed it necessary and proper to bring everyone up to date. It is not the case that the church will fall down around us. It IS the case that this major repair MUST be finally addressed.

Our parish is so blessed in so many ways. As is the case with your homes, at times it becomes necessary to address a major repair issue. I will keep you all up to date as things progress. St. Joseph, pray for us!

God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

January 23, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

Today, are you somehow “in the dark?” Do you seek a closer relationship with Christ Jesus and His Church, with others? In the first reading, Isaiah says, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.” Not only was he referring to the Jewish people, but he also was predicting the coming of the Christ, Who rescues us from our sins! 

When Jesus brings eternal life and truth to a soul, joy follows. St. Paul reveals today that walking in the light means being in Christ. We find our harmony and unity in the first words of Jesus. His first words of public ministry were: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” The Apostles left their nets and followed when Jesus called to them. Perhaps we could ask ourselves today, “What tangled nets do I need to leave behind to follow Christ Jesus in trust and unity?” 

Each one of us, when we were baptized, was baptized into Christ Jesus and His Holy Bride, the Church. In the Rite of Baptism, the priest or deacon, immediately following the baptism proclaims, “You have put on Christ.” 

At that moment all concerned know that we became Christ for others. Imagine if you will, unrolling the scroll as Jesus did in today’s Gospel and proclaiming those words: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor.” That is precisely what each one of us who has been baptized into Christ and His Church is called to do. 

Pray during this upcoming week for the grace to do just as Christ calls us to do. In what ways can you personally respond to His call to bring His “glad tidings” to others? How can you share your Catholic faith with others by sharing with them the graces you have received through His Church, Her sacraments, Her liturgy? Invite others into the Mystical Body of Christ, His Church! Can you think of any thing more meaningful to share? 

PS: Just think, we have ‘made it’ through the first third of winter! Hang in there! 

May God bless us and keep us always!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

January 16, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

Ah, here we are firmly in the midst of January. Isn’t it great? I suppose the best answer is: “It’s pretty typical.” One thing I have noticed is the amount of increasing light each day is bringing! You know I love snow and cold doesn’t bother me, but I do not like the darkness; making the days and nights seem so long. Mom used to be ready for bed by 8:30, thinking it must be 10 pm already! Oh, the glory of Gott. In my opinion, I still enjoy the changing of the seasons rather than the same thing all year round. It reminds me of life, cyclical. 

“To each individual,” writes St. Paul, “the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit.” We might think that being given the Spirit means having all the answers, or for that matter, having no questions! 

Holy Scripture provides little support for such supposition. All that the Holy Spirit gives us … and blessed are we if we can handle so much … is an awareness of, an openness to, Christ’s Presence and activity in our lives. 

Let’s consider our Blessed Mother at Cana. She simply tells her Son what she sees: “They have no wine.” Are you thinking, “just like a mother?” Her implied petition is not given an immediate reply. Mary does not ask again or assume Jesus isn’t interested. Mary simply accepts that Her Son will answer her prayer/petition as is best for all. 

Next comes one of the most powerful statements of New Testament faith and the faith of the Church: “Do whatever He tells you.” In that simple and deeply faithful directive, Our Lady undoes terrible words screamed at God by Lucifer: “I will not serve!” 

Whatever Jesus decides will be for the best. He doesn’t need a script or teleprompter. Better we turn to Him trustingly, turn over the things we cannot handle alone. In the Holy Spirit, we invoke God’s power, not for our own good or selfish desires, but for the good of salvation. We pray always, “Thy will be done.” Can we honestly utter that statement of faith? To help us, we have Our Lady and her motherly advice: “Do whatever He tells you.” 

Mothers do know best you know! 

May God bless you and keep you always! May Jesus in the Holy Eucharist lead and guide you!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

January 9, 2022

+Dear Friends, 

We continue to bask in the glow of Christmas-tide. Following last Sunday’s celebration of the Epiphany, the Mass readings for the daily Masses this past week, have all centered on further “epiphanies,” or “Theopanies” of Jesus Christ. In other words, further manifestations of His Divinity as God. 

Today, Holy Mother Church officially closes the Christmas Season with the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord. His is a Baptism of inauguration; ours, a Baptism of forgiveness and incorporation. 

Our Lord’s Baptism marked the beginning of His public ministry of salvation. He “immersed” Himself into our humanity, becoming like us in all things but sin. He shouldered our sin, our guilt and showed us the way unto eternal life lies in both the Holy Eucharist and the suffering of the cross. 

The flame entrusted to our parents, or ourselves, at Baptism, is to be “kept burning brightly.” It is this flame of faith which we will present to our Lord when we stand before Him at death. 

Sadly, many times we choose to forget or, worse still, ignore, this flame of faith. Faith is freely given and must be freely accepted; Jesus forces no one to follow Him. BUT, if so chosen, one MUST humbly follow as revealed by Christ and His Bride. In other words, it’s not up to me or you to define Christ’s revelation. That belongs to the Church. If one has a “problem” with official Church teaching, then one has a “problem” with Jesus! 

May we use this celebration of Christ’s Baptism to joyfully give thanks for our own! We have been chosen. Let us live in that joyful awareness! 

Continued best wishes to a blessed new year, 2022!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

January 2, 2022

+Dear Friends,

A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR ONE AND ALL! Today, the Church celebrates the ancient Solemnity of the Epiphany. The three magi, or kings as we call them in song, spent a good deal of their lives searching for the Christ. We are privileged to find Him every day of our lives right here, in St. Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church! He is in our midst as the Bread of Life, the Holy Eucharist, the Most Blessed Sacrament!

On the Solemnity of the Epiphany, which commemo- rates the visit of the magi to Jesus, it is tradition that the Epiphany Proclamation is read. I reprint it here for you to enjoy:

“The glory of the Lord has shone upon us and shall ever manifest itself among us until the day of His return. Through the rhythms and changes of time, let us call to mind and live the mysteries of salvation.”

“The center of the whole liturgical year is the Paschal Triduum of the Lord, crucified, buried and risen, which will culminate in the solemn Vigil of Easter, during the holy night that will end with the dawn of the 17th of April.”

“From Easter there comes forth and are reckoned all the days we keep holy: Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the Lenten spring, the 2nd of March; the Ascension of the Lord, the 29th of May, and Pentecost, the 5th of June; the First Sunday of Advent, the 27th of November.”

“To Christ, Who was, Who is, and Who is to come, the Lord of time and history, be endless praise for ever and ever. Amen!”

Many Catholic households pray to ask God’s blessing upon the family home on the Solemnity of the Epiphany. Printed here on this page of the bulletin, you will find the blessing prayer to be offered by the family gathered inside the front door. Afterwards, using chalk, the following is inscribed over the door: 20 + C + B + M + 22.

Caspar, Balthasar, and Melchior are the names given to the Three Wise Men; the Magi. Consider doing this blessing as a family!

Once again, my sincere thanks to ALL for your prayers and remembrances offered at Christmas. I thank all who helped in any way with the Liturgies of this Holy Season. I hope and pray our New Year, 2022 will be a time of blessing to us all! God Bless You All!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

December 26, 2021

+Dear Friends,

As we continue our Christmas Celebration, Holy Mother Church calls us together to observe the Feast of the Holy Family.

Two holy elderly couples are presented to us in today’s Mass. Abram and Sarah, and Simeon and Anna. The common thread that weaves through each of these people’s lives is that they longed for something. Who among us has not experienced this same feeling and desire?

For Abram and Sarah, it was for a child. For Simeon and Anna, it was to behold the Messiah before they died. Perhaps the message of these holy people is that for a people of faith, often what we greatly desire comes only after a very long wait. We can draw inspiration from the great faith and patience shown us by Abram, Sarah, Simeon, and Anna.

As the new year prepares to dawn, we gather to place ourselves and our world under the protective mantle of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God! She is the Queen of Peace, to whom we can pray for an end to violence and all threats against the dignity and protection of human life, from conception to natural death. She is the Mother of Sorrows, who joins her heart and voice to ours as we bring to God our prayers and needs. She is Theotokos, the God-Bearer, through whose intercession we raise our prayers to the Lord Jesus, Who reigns in eternal glory! Mary is the Mother of the Church and our Mother. Who better to turn to in prayer than the Mother of Christ Himself? Bishop Sheen once said, “How can we fail to love and honor her, whom her Son so loved?” Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!

My humble thanks for your kind remembrances at Christmas! I wish you all a very Happy New Year 2022! May this coming year be a time of good health of mind and body for all of us, our families, and our friends!

Again, due to the unique fact of both Christmas and New Years falling on a Saturday, please remember the Mass Schedule for New Years this coming weekend!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

December 19, 2021

+Dear Friends, In the reading today from Samuel, we heard, “I have been with you wherever you went.” That should echo in our hearts as we prepare for next week’s celebration of Christmas. We heard today of the Lord’s enduring presence as shown to the Blessed Mother, who accepts the invitation to bear the Son of God within her. At that moment of our Lord’s conception within her, God’s promise of faithful endurance and presence is proclaimed … thanks be to God!

During this Advent season we have waited patiently (?) in joyful hope for the coming of the Lord Jesus. We have lifted our voices sang, “O come, O come, Emmanuel.” We have listened to the pleas of St. John the Baptist, who summons us to prepare the way for the Lord. We have been inspired by the prophetic words of Isaiah and Samuel, who gave us words of comfort and challenge.

The glory that is Christmas unfolds before us in just a few days! On Christmas day, the Virgin Mary brings forth the Son of God and His Name is Emmanuel. Through the joy of our Catholic faith, we recognize that “God is with us.”

We will celebrate God’s becoming one of us in all things but sin. We will celebrate our dying and rising with Christ Jesus in Baptism. We will celebrate His enduring Presence in the Most Holy Eucharist. Truly, the Tabernacle in our church is the enduring manger of Christ!

Please note in the bulletin, as well as at the entrance of the church, the Mass schedule for the Solemnity of Christmas and New Year’s. Yes, it is somewhat complicated this year, but keep the schedule handy and you will be fine! This happens every six to seven years, with Christmas and New Years falling on a Saturday.

As we journey through this fourth and final week of Advent, let us do our very best at preparing our hearts to celebrate with joy the Incarnation of Jesus. May He touch our hearts this week as we prayerfully and humbly call to mind that He has come to us, that He is with us, and that He will come again in glory!

Oh, Come, Let Us Adore Him!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

December 12, 2021

+Dear Friends, 

It’s hard to believe but this weekend we celebrate Gaudete Sunday, the Third Sunday of Advent. Coming from the Latin for “rejoice”, today the rose candle of our Advent wreath is lit. The blending of the penitential violet and the white of Christmas gives us cause to rejoice that the glory of Christmas draws near!

Last week the Letter of St. Peter reminded us to conduct ourselves in holiness and devotion as we await the coming of our Lord Jesus. This week the prophet Isaiah tells us what it means to be someone upon whom the Holy Spirit comes to rest.

When each one of us was baptized and later confirmed, the Holy Spirit came upon us, making us sons and daughters of God. As we heard in today’s first reading, let us pray that we will become more and more a people who bring “glad tidings” to others. Let us pray to be a people of Advent hope and joy rather than one from whom others turn away because our demeanor and countenance says anything but joy.

On this Gaudete Sunday, let us pray for one another. In a world torn apart by Covid, closures, abuse, lay-offs and all the other evils mankind must somehow survive, let us pray that each of us draws closer to our Eucharistic Christ. It is only through, with and in Jesus in the Holy Eucharist that we will ever know peace, not only for ourselves but for our world as well. Sometimes it’s not always easy to remain hope-filled. Our fears, anxieties, and own lack of confidence in Jesus’ Presence can make it almost impossible to remain in Advent hope. That’s where we can help one another. Every day, pray for others. Offer your own doubts and fears that another may know Jesus and His Presence. You may never know who this other person was or is that your prayers have helped. It is enough to know that they have helped!

Please note well via the bulletin and website, the CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR’S MASS SCHEDULE! With the Holy Days falling on Saturdays, it changes things a bit. Okay, here we go: MASSES WILL BE OFFERED FOR CHRISTMAS AT 4:00 PM DECEMBER 24TH AND MIDNIGHT, DECEMBER 25TH. MASS WILL BE OFFERED ON DECEMBER 25TH AT 10:30 AM AS WELL. THERE WILL BE NO SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25TH CONFESSIONS OR VIGIL MASS! MASSES FOR SUNDAY, THE FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY, WILL BE AT 8:00 AND 10:30 AM.

For MARY, MOTHER OF GOD, Mass will as follows: THERE WILL BE A MASS OFFERED ON FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31ST AT 4:00 PM. THERE WILL BE A MASS ON SATURDAY EVENING, JANUARY 1ST FOR THE FEAST OF THE EPIPHANY AS WELL AS ON SUNDAY, JANUARY 2ND, AT 8:00 AND 10:30 AM.

These were the recommendations of the Liturgy Commission as well as after consultation with some brother priests.

I will continue to be here for confessions Wednesday, December 15 & 22 from 6-7 pm. We have had a great turnout for confessions thus far! Keep it up! Venit, Adora.
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

December 5, 2021

+Dear Friends, 

The season of Advent is a wonderful liturgical time. We are treated to a myriad of scripture readings and feasts that serve to inspire us as we wait in joyful hope for the coming of the Lord.

In today’s Mass, Isaiah announces that the glory of God will be revealed and that we are to have no fear as we anticipate the tremendous burst of glory that the Lord’s coming will ignite.

St. Peter reminds us to conduct ourselves in holiness and devotion as we ready ourselves to welcome the Lord at the end of time.

The central figure for this Second Sunday of Advent is, of course, St. John the Baptist, who points not to himself but to the One Who is to come, Who will baptize with the power of the Holy Spirit! It’s not too terribly hard for us to realize that it is WE who are to point the way to Jesus Christ in our world today. It is WE who are to repent, make ready and prepare to welcome Jesus!

I do wish to add a brief note concerning the rumors of the Archdiocese conducting a major Capital Campaign. That has NOT been determined and will not be until the close of January 2022. As it pertains to our parish and our desire to possibly continue to Phase Two of our own expansion which would be the Parish Life Center to hold 250 for a dinner or gathering, a new larger kitchen and of course bathrooms and storage, this is all “on hold” for now. Hopefully, sometime in the late spring, all parishes will know two things: 1. The Archdiocese is or is not going to conduct a major campaign; 2. Our parish will or will not be allowed to continue our own expansion plans. Complicated? Ya, Ya!

Again, please note in the bulletin, the Mass times for the upcoming SOLEMNITY OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION. Mass will be offered on December 7th at 7:00 pm. On December 8th, Mass will be offered at 12 noon. It is our national patronal feast day and of course, a Holy Day of Obligation. We celebrate the truth of revelation that the Blessed Virgin Mary was conceived in the womb of St. Anne without inheriting the stain of original sin.

Mary was chosen before time began by the heavenly Father to be the Mother of Jesus, in whom we are baptized. Just as Mary was chosen to bear the Christ, so, too, each of us are chosen to bear Christ to others. As we gather to celebrate Mass in her honor and hear the familiar story of the Annunciation, let us ask God to enter our hearts this Advent season! Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, may we be found prepared to meet the Lord when He comes again in glory! Come, let us adore Him!

I wish to remind you all that each Wednesday of Advent from 6 to 7 pm, “The Light is on For You.” I remind you also, to check our bulletin for the times of confession offered at our neighboring parishes of St. Malachy and St. Susanna. Both of our cohort parishes are offering, as I am, extra nights for Confession, rather than the penance service program. Naturally, our Saturday schedule of 3:45 to 4:30 continues as well. “Prepare the way of the Lord!”

May our Blessed Mother guide us as we continue our Advent journey toward her Son!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

November 28, 2021

+Dear Friends,

Welcome to Advent! The new year of liturgical grace, 2022, has begun! The first words spoken by our Lord Jesus in today’s Gospel set the tone for this holy season of expectant longing: “Be watchful! Be alert!”

We stand ready at the beginning of this holy Advent season, for we do not know when Jesus will return in glory. We open our hearts to Scriptures and reflections that call us to be mindful of the ways of the Lord.

If our faith lives have become “withered like leaves,” as Isaiah laments, let God’s word instill new life in all of us! Let that word penetrate our hearts and fill us with life and joy. One of the beautiful aspects of Advent is the prospect of yet another “new beginning.”

Advent offers us the opportunity to prayerfully reflect on how we are doing when it comes to living, celebrating, and praying our Catholic Faith. Whether or not it is taking the time to come and celebrate the Sacrament of Penance, attending a daily Mass when one can, remembering the Holy Day of Obligation of the Immaculate Conception or taking part in our Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Advent is the time to begin anew. As we reflect on the message of today’s Mass, let this be our prayer: “Come, Lord Jesus!”

Don’t forget, the Holy Day of the Immaculate Conception is coming up! Vigil Mass on December 7th will be at 7:00 pm. On December 8th, Mass will be at Noon!

Also, remember “The Light is on For You” each Wednesday of Advent from 6 to 7 pm. I will be hearing confessions in the Confessional Chapel as usual. Make a good confession for Advent! The bulletin also contains the information regarding our neighboring parishes of St. Susanna and St. Malachy. Remember, also, our regularly scheduled Saturday confessions, from 3:45 to 4:30 pm will continue. The ‘Examination Conscience Pamphlets” are available in the pamphlet rack for your convenience. Please pray through it before coming to Confession!

Available this weekend in the narthex are the Advent Magnificat Prayer Booklets to use during this holy season. Also available are the new 2022 Catholic calendars.

The 2022 Misselettes are available on the book rack in the vestibule for your use this year! Please do NOT take one home; we can use them as normal this year. May our Season be one of prayerful, expectant prayer, repentance, and joy!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

November 21, 2021

+Dear Friends,

The readings for the entire liturgical year of 2021 have led us to this weekend’s Solemnity of Christ the King. This is where we take our stand beside our King! We are also blessed to have with us for the 10:30 Mass, Archbishop Thompson. The Archbishop is with us to formally dedicate and bless our beautiful new addition of narthex, classrooms, and office space.

This week the Lord Jesus tells “Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to My voice.” As this text is proclaimed and we take it out into our world, let us ask for the strength to listen more attentively to the voice of the Lord in our daily lives. On this last Sunday of Ordinary time, the very threshold of the holy Season of Advent, let us remember that our call to listen to, and put into practice, the voice of the Lord, is a constant call in our lives; it is not something done once and forgotten; it is something that never ends. We must continually open our hearts and souls to do our humble best to “belong to the truth” and listen to the voice of Christ! How powerful is today’s Gospel passage which we hear on every Good Friday during Holy Week. Before Pontius Pilate, His life hanging by a thread, our Lord stands as Truth Incarnate … and Pilate misses Him. So do we, don’t we? We either innocently miss Him, or we consciously choose to miss Him … either one is tragic. Perhaps at today’s Mass, we will see that it’s time to do a little reordering of attitudes and behaviors.

Today’s Solemnity of Christ the King is a symbol and celebration of the endurance of Christ’s Church and a sign of hope. Just call to mind all the kings and kingdoms of the world over history, of how they once ruled with power and oftentimes mercilessly. Think of those governments that persecuted the Church with such viciousness that countless scores of faithful became martyrs for Christ and the Faith. Think now that most are now all gone and the only one that has endured to celebrate the Kingship of Christ is the One True Church that He founded!

As noted above, the holy Season of Advent begins next weekend! Once again, we will have available the Magnificat Advent Booklets for daily prayer and reflection. Please take one and use throughout the holy season. Also, from Pope Francis to many local bishops, we continue to be encouraged to offer the practice of praying together at the close of each Mass, the “Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel.” This prayer, a part of the Mass prior to Vatican II, is being prayed in recognition that the Church finds Herself in spiritual battle against the powers of evil. The purification needed in the Church has a powerful ally in St. Michael. It is printed on the back of the missalette. Save it … and pray it!

It’s not too early to mark your calendars that each WEDNESDAY OF ADVENT, FROM 6 TO 7 PM, “THE LIGHT IS ON FOR YOU!” We always have a good turnout for this. I believe both St. Malachy and St. Susanna are following the same arrangement this year.

May our Eucharistic King bless us, our families, our parish and our world with His peace and His grace! Deo Gratias!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

November 14, 2021

+Dear Friends, 

In today’s Gospel, we hear the series of events that will signal the second coming of Christ. “Heaven and earth will pass away,” Jesus tells us, “but my words will not pass away.”

Jesus is reassuring us that His return will not signal a final end to life. The Lord promises us a life that will endure after this earth passes away. Today’s readings are fitting as we experience the ending of another liturgical year and stand on the threshold of another, which will begin with the First Sunday of Advent.

Our Lord’s words do, however, give us warning and significant pause for prayer. How will we each appear before Him at His return? What will the “scales” look like regarding our lives? No one is able to answer for our own personal lives and the decisions, for good or bad, which we have made. That will be our sole responsibility.

Rather than make us paranoid or scared stiff, this fact of our religious lives, should make us grateful for the Lord’s blessings and our faith! It should make us more cognizant of our actions, words, and attitudes in our daily lives! It should make us take our Catholic Faith much more serious than we normally do, its practice, its fervor, and its commitment! Apathy and indifference are two of the deadliest sins we each will no doubt present before the throne of God.

Today’s Gospel gives us an opportunity to prayerfully reflect and reprioritize if need be … thanks be to God!

Perhaps by this time many of you have already received your UCA treasure commitment card. Our 2021 UCA Goal stays the same as last year. In today’s bulletin you will find our time and talent campaign form. I thank you for turning in your pledge cards and the time & talent for both our parish and our Archdiocese. I thank ALL who have thus far made a pledge AND thank those who also have made inquiry and commitment to share their time and talent with our parish as well! If you have not made your pledge or turned in your card, PLEASE do so within the next couple of weeks!

Speaking of Time, Talent and Treasure, our Parish Life Commission (social activities) needs to be renewed and reformed. If you are interested in joining the group, please call Anna in the office. A date and time will be set up for an organizational meeting. The main areas of activity for the group are Oktoberfest, Easter egg hunt and Christmas party. It is the desire that if enough folks come forward, that everyone on the commission will not be involved in all the activities. In other words, the events will be divided up. Hope to hear from you!

My personal thanks to all for your kind gifts of cards, words and remembrances shown for my birthday this past Veterans’ Day! What a great day to celebrate a birthday … I never had to go to school that day! Of course, the Veterans take the first place of honor for us all!

 May the good God continue to bless us!
Father Michael Fritsch

November 7, 2021

+Dear Friends, 

Today’s liturgy of the word summons us to reflect on all the gifts our Father has given us and urges us to be generous with these gifts. As we adore and offer prayers of gratitude to God, Who has so blessed each of us, we must always remember those who are in need. In a way, we can say this is the two sides of one coin.

It is our privileged obligation to care for our neighbor in whatever way we are able. Again, it’s important for us to remember that we acknowledge the fact that we cannot do everything for everyone. However, we must and can help when and where we can!

The poor woman in today’s Gospel demonstrates the way in which we are to be generous. From her heart, she gave her all!

Our goal for the upcoming United Catholic Appeal this year is $34,507. The parish of St. Mary, Queen of Peace, has benefited greatly from the generosity of the Archdiocesan family when the parish built both our current church, as well as our new beautiful addition. Without this shared stewardship, the parish would not have been able to accomplish what needed to be done.

Catholic Charities serves an unbelievable number of clients each year. The “home missions” which means they benefit from the annual appeal as well, serves many parishes which simply could not make it financially without Archdiocesan help.

The generosity shown to support and educate our seminarians is outstanding. Also vitally important is our support of our dedicated retired priests who served and continue to serve our Archdiocesan parishes.

Our gifts of time, talent and treasure to our parish are incalculable as well! Without volunteers and generous stewardship, things would not/could not be done. Prayerfully consider YOUR pledges as you return to the Lord from His blessings to you!

We pray for one another; we protect one another as well. Don’t forget our Veterans on this coming Veterans’ Day! Together let us thank the vets who have protected our nation and continue to do so throughout the world! Mass is for ALL Veterans, living and deceased, on November 11th at 5:30 pm!

 May the good God continue to bless and protect us!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

October 31, 2021

+Dear Friends, 

For the last several weeks we have listened to readings that challenged us to use God’s gifts wisely and generously. We have been called to place the needs of our neighbor before those of our own desires. Granted, not an easy thing to do. 

This week, all of those commands by our Lord are captured within the summation of the commandments offered by Jesus in the Gospel, which is an echo of the first reading. Jesus tells us the greatest commandment is that we love the Lord our God with everything in our being; with everything we have. That means we place ourselves and our treasures at His disposal. 

The second commandment is that we love our neighbor as we love our selves. These are the core commandments from which all others flow. Honestly, we need look no further than our own hearts to see that these two great commandments are often ignored, do we? 

A beautiful image is that of the crucifix. It takes two arms to make the cross on which our Lord was glorified. The vertical beam is our love of God. The horizontal beam is our love of neighbor. It’s not either/or; it’s both/and. 

As we begin on Montag, this month of remembrance, these darkening days of November, remember your beloved gone before you in special times of prayer. Make an effort to attend a Daily Mass for them. Say a rosary for them. Make a visit to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament for them. Ask them to pray for you. May their souls rest in peace! **Remember, although the Obligation is non-binding when the Solemnity of ALL SAINTS falls on a Monday, I will be offering Mass on Monday at NOON. On Tuesday, November 2nd, we observe the Feast of ALL SOULS. The Holy Mass will be offered at the usual time of 5:30 pm. These Masses are a beautiful example of the Church Triumphant in Heaven, the Church Suffering in Purgatory and the Church Militant here on earth. The beautiful Communion of the Saints join together in worship of the Holy Trinity! Each praying for one another … most certainly a note of consolation! 

God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

Sunday, October 10, 2021

+Dear Friends, 

ACHTUNG! The second Fish Fry will be this coming Friday, October 15th, from 4:00 to 7:00 pm! Come, support the parish, have a good time. Again, this will be a drive-through dinner!! 

In today’s Gospel, Jesus gives quite a challenge; not only for the “rich young man” but for each of us. He insists, not suggests, that we give all we have to the poor and follow Him. I mean, come on; You can’t be serious, Lord! 

This may seem impossible and too much to ask, especially when we consider our own true needs in this world. Yet, our Lord is telling us to focus on the needs of others. We are called to “love our neighbor as ourselves,” which includes making sacrifices for others. 

Of course, our Lord teaches by example, He made the greatest sacrifice … His life … for the life of the world; for our life. That’s giving all! 

Our Lord is not telling us that possessing things is evil, wrong, or unjust. Over the years, His words have been twisted by some resulting in many feeling guilty or ashamed of owning things. As a matter of fact, it was an early heresy that said that it was sinful to own anything! So, Jesus is not telling us to have a gigantic yard sale and become homeless. He is telling us that no-thing should ever take the place He occupies, or should occupy, in our hearts and lives. This is true wisdom, as spoken of in our first reading. 

It can be said that knowledge is of man; wisdom is of God. There is a huge difference! 

This coming week, I will welcome my good priest friend, Fr. Jim Koressel for a short visit. It is always a joy to have him here. He has never been up to the little German-American town of Frankenmuth in Michigan that Mom and my aunt, Sister Dorothy, loved to visit. Ergo, I am taking him up there for a couple days. You go there to basically eat fried chicken, German food, stroll the shops and rest … does it get any better than that? For next weekend, my good friend, Fr. Danny Bedel, whom I vested at his ordination, will be at our parish to speak about the wonderful ministry of our Bishop Brute’ Seminary located near Marian University. It’s interesting that Fr. Danny was among the first class to graduate from Brute’ before moving along to St. Meinrad for theology. Now he is on staff as Spiritual Director. He has come full circle as we say. You will enjoy his visit for sure. 

Everyone have a prayer-full week and enjoy this beautiful season of Autumn! 

May the good God bless and keep you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

Sunday, October 3, 2021

+Dear Friends, 

In today’s Gospel, Jesus reminds us that the bond of marriage is a holy one. Honestly, we have to admit that the holiness of this sacred bond and union is overlooked, discounted, or even mocked in our ever so modern society. Rather than being defended, the attempt now is to “redefine.” 

Day after day we witness couples struggling in their relationships; I know I do. Sometimes they choose to sever that sacred bond rather than live the hard work required to restore a trust and love that has perhaps been broken. Of course, one can never make assumptions nor pass objective judgment on any married couple. 

As Catholics who celebrate marriage as a Sacrament “instituted by Christ to give grace,” we believe Jesus’ words: “The two shall become one flesh … Therefore, what God has joined together, man must not separate.” 

I often tell couples in preparation for marriage that it takes much love and hard work to make any marriage faithful and fruitful. At times couples can have that ‘stars in the eyes’ look that, while sweet, can mask the reality of making a marital relationship last. Our society and almost everything one hears or sees, if not ridiculing marriage, certainly can warp its true meaning, purpose, and joy. 

There exists two purposes of Christian marriage. Both MUST be present to validate the Sacrament. One, is the unitive aspect; where the two pledge mutual respect, love, acceptance, and support. This aspect in turn brings about the second necessary aspect of Christian marriage which is procreative. When either of these is removed or hindered (thus the ban on all forms of artificial contraception), then the sacred bond is severely strained, if not completely broken. 

Today’s Mass offers us an opportunity to do several things. First, if married, to renew your vows to one another in mutual and lasting fidelity. Second, the opportunity for everyone to pray for couples preparing for marriage and to assist and pray for couples known to be experiencing struggles. Third, to pray for those who have gone through, often-times, as the innocent partner, the pain and loss of divorce. 

A renewal in the acknowledgement of the sacredness of marriage is a good thing! May the Lord preserve all in Christian marriage and protect the sanctity of all human life from womb to natural death! 

Let us pray: “God, may this may be so!”
Father Michael Fritsch

 

Sunday, July 25, 2021

+Dear Friends, 

Last Sunday we listened to the Gospel account of how Jesus was moved with pity for the people who were “like sheep without a shepherd.” In today’s Gospel, the Lord again looks upon the enormous crowd that had followed Him and performs the miracle of the loaves and fishes.

It is important for us to remember that each time Our Lord provides nourishment for the crowds and/or His Apostles, those incidents all lead to the most miraculous feeding that He provided and still does provide … the Holy Eucharist! Each of those incidents provided Our Lord the opportunity to prepare His followers for His greatest Gift of all: His very Body and Blood.

How truly blessed we are this summer! How so? Well, again in this year of “Cycle B” readings, we hear of the tremendous Gift of the Most Holy Eucharist. I personally look forward to the Year B cycle each time it comes around; it offers me the opportunity to really “zero in” on the “Source and Summit” of our lives as Catholics. Without the Holy Eucharist, we cease to be Catholic … plain and simple. It is good for us to hear of this most Precious Gift at this time in our nation’s history. My friends, we are in a spiritual battle if we truly live our Catholic faith. When one listens to a person truly “fired up” about being Catholic, it cannot help but to re-ignite our own fire. When one meets a fellow Catholic who has a deep love and respect for the Blessed Sacrament, the Holy Mass, and the priesthood, one cannot help but be changed. When we priests are reminded that we are here to preach the truth of Christ again and again, even when some don’t wish to hear it, or it’s hard to hear, one cannot help but become stronger in his or her Catholic Faith!

We find ourselves facing, if you accept the validity of polling in their totality, when a frightening number of Catholics say they no longer believe in the True, Real Presence of Jesus Christ in His Gift of the Holy Eucharist. How can this be possible? I confess I do not have the answer in its fullness. I can, without hesitation, state that when fellow Catholics have been “fed” half-truths, distortions of sound liturgical and sacramental teachings of the Church, the results are self-evident. They no longer believe, or ever did believe, because they were never taught!

After the Vatican Council in the mid-sixties, the almost total emphasis was placed on “community meal” rather than “Eucharistic Sacrifice.” While the communal aspect is vitally important, it can never usurp the truth that the Mass is primarily THE Sacrifice of Jesus Christ to His Heavenly Father. At each celebration of the Mass, His Gift is RE-PRESENTED to His Father on OUR behalf. No amount of “community” will get us to heaven!

There is a myriad of examples one can point to in regard to some people’s lack of awareness or understanding of the Sacred Liturgy. Here is one: the priest stands “in Persona Christi,” in the Person of Christ, when offering Christ’s Mass (the word “Christmas, by the way!). As such, his primary privilege is to offer sacrifice; hence the name “priest,” not “presider.” A presider is one who oversees meetings and such. A priest, by definition, offers sacrifice. In this capacity, the priest offers the people’s prayers TO God the Father, THROUGH Jesus Christ, IN the power of the Holy Spirit. Thus, he must always remember TO WHOM he is speaking.

“Father, Vatican II said not to use Latin anymore.” NO, it specifically called for Latin to “be retained” in the Mass. St. John XXIII made sure that was included in the documents. Every religion has its “sacred language,” a language not used in normal conversation or on the streets. The Jews have Hebrew, for example. Latin is our sacred language; it always will be. Pope John’s vision was that the readings should be proclaimed in the vernacular, or language of the people BUT, especially the Eucharistic Prayer or “Canon,” remain in Latin. I am NOT advocating a return to an “all Latin Mass.” I simply use this as an example of how things became distorted in the past to a point that many simply have never been taught the Faith in its fullness.

“Father, what about Pope Francis’ letter “Traditionis custodes,” or “Guardians of the Tradition?” “Doesn’t he say no more Latin?” Simply put, no. His letter is limiting the usage of the “Extraordinary Form,” or “Tridentine” Rite of the Mass. That second name comes from the Council of Trent … circa 1545. Pope Benedict had loosened the restrictions placed on the offering of this Form of the Mass. Pope Francis is returning those restrictions. It may still be offered for those who desire it. In my humble opinion, the “Novus Order,” or Rite we most commonly use, IF offered with the reverence, solemnity, use of Latin here and there, is just as beautiful as the “Extraordinary Form.” Pope Francis himself, in his letter, bemoans all the abuses that took place and continue to take place in the celebration of the Mass.

What a Gift! What a Treasure! Remember the words of St. John Vianney: “When you come before the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament, open your hearts; He will open His!”

 God bless one and all and have a good week!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

Sunday, July 18, 2021

+Dear Friends, 

For several weeks now we have been listening to Gospel stories that focus on our behavior and relationships as we follow Christ Jesus. This week, the first reading and Gospel remind us that Christian hospitality has always been a hallmark of the Church.

We are called to extend a welcome to those who come into our midst. Like the message from last weekend’s parable of the Good Samaritan, this call to hospitality has challenging implications for us all. In welcoming the stranger or visitor, we not only imitate Jesus, we also have the potential of welcoming Christ Himself into our midst.

At times, hospitality is thought of as merely smiling at someone or saying “hello.” While that is sometimes true, it goes much deeper for those of us who call ourselves Catholic. How so?

As a priest, I can’t tell you the number of times people have shared with me that one big reason they converted to the Church was because they were invited to Mass or invited to pray about the Faith by a member of the parish or Catholic friend. That is the truest form of hospitality that we can offer! What could compare with welcoming someone into the Church established by Our Lord Jesus? Being there for someone who is inquiring about the Church, about the Holy Eucharist, about those “things” we Catholics “do”; that’s being hospitable! And that’s the “new evangelization” that we are called to live. May the Lord give us the will and joy to do so!

It may be a bit hot and humid at times but isn’t it nice to enjoy the things summer brings us? I still love my snow, but I have to admit, I like being able to be outside on my porch or riding my bike. Sort of hard to do those things with snow and cold. Of course, being human, we will continue to complain about the weather year-round, won’t we?

God’s blessings upon us all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

 

Sunday, July 4, 2021

+Dear Friends, 

As we gather on this Independence Day weekend, let us once more thank God for our blessings and the graces we need to work to make our glorious country even more just and free! We have so very much to be thankful for as a people and we have much to pray and work for to ensure a deeper respect and justice for all human life! “Pro Deo et Patria”; “For God and Country” should always be our motto. As St. Thomas More said as he faced his beheading: “I am the king’s (country’s) good servant; but God’s first.” That is a good motto for all Catholics! We owe allegiance to our great nation BUT, to God first!

Let’s take a look at the readings for this weekend’s Mass. They offer us an ironic twist on this Independence weekend.

The people of Jesus’ “native place” had begun to measure Him based on their own inadequate preconceptions and presuppositions. In other words, even before Jesus spoke or acted, some had already closed their minds and hearts to His word and presence … not totally unlike our own day, right? Think of those who have closed their hearts and minds to the wisdom of Christ’s Church, often before they truly understand it.

Because they were filled with contempt right off the bat, they ruled out even the remote possibility of experiencing the “mighty deeds of the Lord.” How much better are those who, like St. Paul, approach the Lord from the perspective of the “thorn” in their flesh, even taking comfort in their weakness. For “power is made perfect in weakness.”

This brings me to a point in an article written by Fr. Peter John Cameron, OP. Father wrote: “What God desires is our trust, our dependence, our reliance, our certainty, our surrender. God loves to be acknowledged by nothingness. In the nothingness that we offer to God, the Everything He gives appears ever more glorious. Our greatness and freedom derive from this dependence.”

“All of this shows our fundamental human desire to give God something.” Pope Benedict XVI said that sacrifice consists in our becoming totally receptive toward God and in letting ourselves be completely taken over by Him.

The point of the bread and wine at each Mass is not for them to remain bread and wine but for them rather to be-come the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ. “We hope that what we offer will be completely taken over by God … will be filled with His Presence. Our gifts symbolize ourselves.”

Thus, we gather on this Independence Day weekend as Americans to celebrate our national independence. But, as Catholics and as Christians, we gather this weekend, indeed at each offering of the Holy Mass, to celebrate our total dependence upon Jesus Christ and His Gift of the Holy Eucharist! Ironic, isn’t it?

Let us go forth from this Mass with a renewed vision that true “independence” is only possible within the arms of total dependence on Jesus Christ and His Bride, the Church! For it is “through Him, with Him and in Him” that we live and move and have our being. Now that is cause for rejoicing!

God bless you and may God bless America! AND may America bless God!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

 

Sunday, June 27, 2021

+Dear Friends, 

At Mass this weekend, we meet two familiar people in the Gospel: Jairus the synagogue official and the woman afflicted with some sort of hemorrhages for twelve years.

When we hear their stories, I think we usually marvel at Jesus’ miracles of curing her and raising Jairus’ daughter from the dead. We should marvel! But we also need to reflect and listen for something else.

These two ordinary people were people of tremendous faith. They approached Jesus humbly. They came to Him fully trusting that He would hear them and help them. This kind of trust in the Lord Jesus is the continuing challenge for all of us! Let us pray that we will be unafraid to approach the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus in our needs and in intercession for those who ask for our prayers, trusting He will come to our aid!

Naturally, last weekend’s bulletin and my column were written while I was away. Thus, I have not had the opportunity to mention the “new” parking lot. It really looks sharp, doesn’t it? One more piece of the project puzzle is completed! Once the landscaping is totally finished, the Archbishop will be with us to dedicate our beautiful new facility. That will be a grand day! I am hoping to get on his calendar for the weekend of the Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary, August 15h. It would be nice to dedicate the new building on a feast day of our Blessed Mother! I will let you all know of course when I have a date of commitment from the Archbishop.

How many of you remember as a child thinking that once the Fourth of July was celebrated, summer was somehow “over?” But remember we normally did not start back until after Labor Day. The poor kids today start as early as the end of July in some schools. I’m sorry, but that’s just wrong! Maybe many like it that way though. At least schools have AC now … unlike the “good ole days.” The sisters would tell us: “Don’t think about it and you won’t be hot.” Wrong, sister! One big old fan roaring away in the corner of the room and that was it. The lucky kids that sat there had it made. Oh, to be young.

 God bless us all and God bless America!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

Sunday, June 20, 2021

+Dear Friends,

“Do you not yet have faith?” Our Lord challenges His disciples in today’s Gospel. Without a doubt, many of us can readily identify with the disciples in the Gospel story.

We all have times in our lives when we are afraid, or at least, uncertain of what to do, where to go, whom to ask, especially in situations that seem to be beyond our control.

Like the Apostles, we can be frightened by “severe weather,” and this can also be seen in an analogical manner as well. In our home and work lives, as well as in our personal lives, there have been and no doubt will continue to be, times when we find ourselves in frustrating and anxious situations.

In the midst of times and events that are not always easy, Our Lord Jesus asks us, “Do you not yet have faith?” In the recesses of our hearts, how do we answer that question of Jesus?

Naturally, for those of us who find ourselves within the Barque of Peter, the Church founded by Jesus Himself, we have the divine luxury of our Lord’s Eucharistic Presence with us at all times. Where better to go then into His Presence when we face these times of “severe weather?” Where better to come then to the celebration of Holy Mass and also Sacramental Confession? You might be surprised to know how many times people will stop by and make a visit with Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. They are coming to visit their Lord and it is highly commendable and laudatory.

As we depart from this celebration of Holy Mass, let us always remember to bring to our Lord, our “severe weather” moments. He is here for us; come, let us adore Him!

On this Father’s Day weekend, we wish all our Dads a very HAPPY FATHER’S DAY! Whether still with us in this world or with us in spirit and prayer, we remember Dad in prayer and thanksgiving!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

Sunday, June 13, 2021

+Dear Friends,

This weekend, we welcome Fr. Carlton Beever who is representing Food for the Poor. What is unique in this visit is the fact that Fr. Carlton is a retired priest from our own Archdiocese! It’s nice to have a home-grown priest with us! Welcome, Father!

The Heart of our God aches to “tear off a tender shoot” from a mighty cedar and “plant it on a high and lofty mountain” so that “birds of every kind shall dwell beneath it.” Well now …

That is, the Lord wants to reveal His glory by taking up our nothingness and our insignificance and turning it into something “majestic” by the pure force of His Divine Love.

For this to happen in us of course, Jesus asks that we pay the same attention to the little things of life; like the mustard seed, that He does. All of us are that mustard seed! Seemingly unimportant but priceless in the eyes of Jesus Christ!

Our Lord speaks in parables because, as Pope-Emeritus Benedict once wrote: “reality itself is a parable. The parable does not approach our experience of the world from without; on the contrary, it is the parable that gives this experience its proper depth and reveals what is hidden in things themselves.” When we “walk by faith, not by sight,” the hidden depths of things become ever so apparent. Another way of saying this is, “the Kingdom of God is within,” as Scripture puts it.

By our participation in the Sacramental life of the Church, we have the inner grace and faith to make the Kingdom of God present. How tragic it is that some Catholics don’t appreciate this eternal truth! How very sad to see someone receive the dear Lord in Holy Communion and then rush from the Church without even a prayer of thanksgiving. How sobering to realize that all of us fail to take the opportunity to learn more deeply about our Catholic Faith and Liturgy.

I believe, without hesitation, that those who may leave the Faith do so because they do not understand it. Thus, they are open to other avenues that promise “fellowship” or perceived advantages. After all, HOW could one LEAVE Christ Jesus in the Holy Eucharist if he or she truly understood Its Reality and Presence? Simply, they could not. They cannot defend Its Truth and thus fall prey to forces pulling them in this way or that.

For this reason, two things are vitally important: First, KNOW YOUR CATHOLIC FAITH AND PRACTICE IT! Second, PRAY ALWAYS for those we all know who have walked away from Our Lord and His Eucharistic Heart and Presence in the Holy Mass and the Tabernacles in our Churches. There is no greater gift we can give someone!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

Sunday, June 6, 2021

+Dear Friends, 

What a pleasure it is this weekend to welcome my “Lieber Freund,” (my good friend), Fr. Jim Koressel to St. Mary! Fr. Jim generously agreed to preach to give you a break from me. We are departing Monday for a trip that has been cancelled twice already! This time we are going if we have to hitch hike! Imagine, if you will, a trip consisting of reading, walking the beach, napping, eating gelato and going out to dinner. That is our trip. I know, it doesn’t get much better than that. Danke, Gott, that we are finally getting to go!

“Ecce, Agnus Dei!” What a grand and joyous celebration of our Catholic Faith draws us to Holy Mass this weekend! Today, we proclaim our faith and reverential awe for the “source and summit” of our Faith … CORPUS CHRISTI, the Sacred Body and Blood of Christ!

I find that each year I share with you some thoughts of Pope Benedict XVI.

“The Solemnity of Corpus Christi is the solemn, public Feast of the Holy Eucharist, the Sacrament of the Body and Blood of Christ: on this day, the Mystery instituted at the Last Supper and commemorated every year on Holy Thursday is manifested to all, in the midst of the fervor of faith and devotion of the Ecclesial Community.”

“Indeed, the Eucharist is the “treasure” of the Church, the precious heritage that Her Lord has left to Her. And the Church preserves It with the greatest care, celebrating It daily in holy Mass, adoring It in churches and chapels, administering It to the sick, and as Viaticum to those who are on their last journey.”

“The Eucharist is the Lord Jesus Who gives Himself “for the life of the world.” In every time and place, He wants to meet human beings and bring them the life of God. The transformation of the bread and wine into Christ’s Body and Blood is in fact the principle of the divinization of creation itself.”

“On this Feast day, the Church proclaims that the Eucharist is Its all, Its very life, the source of life that triumphs over death. From communion with Christ in the Eucharist flows the charity that transforms our life and supports us all on our journey toward the heavenly homeland.”

“Let us pray through the prayers of the Virgin Mary, that all Christians may deepen their faith in the Eucharistic Mystery, to live in constant communion with Jesus and be His effective witness.”

As we worship and honor our Eucharistic Lord, let us pray for His divine mercy and grace to shower down upon our families, our parish, and our hearts! To quote Saint Alphonsus Liguori:

“Frequent visits to Jesus Christ in the Sacrament of the Altar are a great help to the souls that love Him!”
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

Sunday, May 23, 2021

+Dear Friends,

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! It is the “birthday of the Church” … PENTECOST! It is traditionally seen as the day on which the Church went forth to spread the Gospel truth of Jesus Christ. Because each and every one of US, no matter our vocation or state in life, no matter our age or social status, by virtue of our baptism is privileged to do the same, it is proper to speak of today as our birth to evangelization; our birth to spread the truth and life of our Catholic faith!

The disciples of Jesus went forth from locked rooms to the big, wide world, armed with the Truth that is Jesus Christ, to speak in His Name, the message of salvation open to all peoples. It serves as a beautiful symbol for all of us to break forth from the locked rooms we often place ourselves into and walk courageously on our own journey of faith, united in the Holy Eucharist!

Perhaps one of the most touching elements of Pentecost is the fact that what once was broken and wounded has now been healed. Through Jesus Christ and His gift of the Holy Spirit, our broken and wounded world has been recreated! On a much more personal level, this healing is ours for the asking! Who among us does not need healing and hope?

Today, let us renew our dedication and commitment to the Sacrament of Penance! Jesus Christ gave His Church, through the ministry of Her priests, the power to absolve sins in His Name. That’s a pretty awesome demonstration of the presence and working of the Holy Spirit if you ask me! And so, celebrate healing! Celebrate His presence in YOU!

With the celebration of Pentecost Sunday, the Church officially marks the close of the glorious season of Eastertide. We will celebrate next weekend the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity followed by the awesome Solemnity of Corpus Christi. Why not make your week anything but ordinary by attending a DAILY MASS? Jesus will be glad you did!

May the Holy Spirit bless, console, and strengthen us all! “Come, Holy Spirit, renew the face of the earth!”
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

Sunday, May 16, 2021

+Dear Friends,

It would be rather disheartening if we saw the glorious Solemnity we observe today, The Ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ, as merely the day on which the Lord left this world for good. As a matter of fact, we would be in some rather distinguished company if we did indeed do so … that of the Apostles! As they stood gazing into the sky into which our Lord had just ascended, they were disheartened. Jesus had become Incarnate; had become Man, in order that man kind might find salvation and eternal life. He had suffered an ignominious death by crucifixion. He had miraculously returned through the power of the Resurrection and endowed the Apostles with the powers of Holy Orders, to confect the Holy Eucharist, to forgive sins, to cure the sick and be evangelists of His truth and life. Now, it seems, He had left them. What were they to do? What are we to do?

I think it’s easy to simply do what the Apostles initially did; stand and gaze into the sky. At times, the world can seem pretty overwhelming. We don’t know which way to turn; what path or decision to take. Quite often, if we care to admit it, these feelings arise because we’re trying to “go it alone.” We’re trying to live our Catholic Faith forgetting the great promise Jesus made to the twelve and to each one of us!

His promise of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost and His promise to remain with His Holy Bride, the Church, for all time, is the promise the Apostles came to believe and it is the same for each one of us. Today, on Ascension, we celebrate our Lord’s promise to both remain and return!

It is a celebration of great faith and a celebration of great promise and hope! It is truly a celebration of the True Church in the world, the vehicle of Sanctifying Grace and Guardian of all that Jesus taught and willed for His chosen people!

So, let us celebrate this great Solemnity with great faith! Remember, Jesus promised us His joy; that our joy might be complete. The coming of the Holy Spirit and the continued presence of Jesus in the Holy Mass and teaching Magisterium of the Church, is our joy!

Laudate, Jesus Christus!

May our Risen and Ascended Lord Jesus Christ, continue to bless us all! AMEN!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

Sixth Sunday of Easter, May 9, 2021

+Dear Friends,

Today’s readings are ones of reassurance and hope. When we hear words such as “love” and “joy” used over and over again in a set of readings, it is a signal for us simply to thank God for the incredible gift given to this world in and through the Person of Jesus Christ.

Here, in His Eucharistic Heart, and only here, can we find the kind of hope and joy that will never desert us or run dry. Here, and only here, can we find the grace that can pull us out of even the deepest despair.

As one departs from Mass today, let us be filled with thanksgiving for the priceless Gift that comes to us through, with and in Christ Jesus!

Today is Mothers’ Day! A VERY HAPPY & BLESSED DAY TO ALL THE MOMS OF OUR PARISH!! If gone before us in faith, let us remember and treasure their memory on this special day! It is never the same once Mom has gone but memories sure do mean a lot don’t they? Believe me, I always made it a point of taking yellow roses (her favorite). We observe the day by having our traditional May Crowning of the Blessed Mother at the 10:30 Mass. The simple ceremony always brings back fond memories for me attending a Catholic grade school. The entire school would assemble and process from school into the church singing the Litany of the Blessed Mother. Later, during Adoration, an eighth-grade girl would crown our church’s statue of Mary while a little First Communion girl would carry the crown. Interestingly enough, my two aunts as well as my Mom, all three, had the honor of crowning the statue over their years at Annunciation School! Must be some record!

“Father, what about the Holy Day of the ASCENSION? Is it this Thursday or what?” Well, in answer to that question, remember that the bishops of the United States, with the exception of one or two dioceses, moved the celebration of the ASCENSION to the Seventh Sunday of Easter some years ago. This means that the annual celebration of the ASCENSION will be on that weekend from now on! So, if anyone asks you the question, now you know the answer!

 Have a great week, everyone! God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

Fifth Sunday of Easter, May 2, 2021

+Dear Friends,

This weekend the readings invite us live in the Name of Jesus. After Saul was converted, he preached Jesus’ Name and told others of his own conversion.

St. John’s letter reminds us that we love God by loving God’s Son and showing that filial love through our love and respect of one another.

He also reminds us of the commandments and of our responsibility (there’s that ugly word we don’t like to hear) to follow them.

In the Holy Gospel we hear our Lord Jesus compare Himself to a vine pruned by God the Father. It’s important for us to recall His words: “Whoever remains in Me and I in him will bear much fruit.”

Jesus also tells us that remaining in Him and bearing fruit is the way we glorify our Father. We give glory to God when we live as Jesus lived and do all things in His Name! Oh, if only we would do so … Quite honestly, I have to say that given the current cultural climate in which we live, it is FAR past time that Catholics step up and proclaim our faith and allegiance to Jesus Christ and His Church! We are going to be judged as hopelessly, even maliciously, “out of step” but then again, wasn’t Jesus? “If they have persecuted Me, they will persecute you also.”

I realize I have written to you all of the following but it bears repeating. We have been granted permission to return the Holy Water to all fonts in the church! Once more, the water is flowing! This beautiful Sacramental is once more restored to us! Thank-you, Archbishop! Also, ALL chairs will be returned to the nave of the church and people are asked to conscientiously “self-distance” either as individuals or as families. MASKS are still required. This last requirement will probably be dropped come this June! All blue hymnals are being returned to the spaces provided in between the chairs as well! We are returning to normal!

We have begun the beautiful month of May … the month dedicated to our Lady. Let us ask and pray that our Blessed Mother continue to bless and lead us to Her Son … “To Jesus, Through Mary!”

 Let us have a prayer-full week, everyone!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

Fourth Sunday of Easter, April 25, 2021

+Dear Friends,

“I came that you may have life and have it more abundantly.” With these words, proclaimed in today’s Gospel, the risen Lord summons us to ponder anew the mystery of shar- ing in His resurrected life.

To embrace this mystery is to embrace a life filled with both abundance and challenge. Far too many people think that following Jesus should mean that their lives run smoothly all the time, they have no anxieties or worries; basically, that everything is warm and fuzzy, sunshine and rainbows. Well, Easter surprise … it is not!

The only way to the kind of abundance Jesus speaks of is through the gateway He has shown us … His total giving of Self for us. You know what that means … “So I have done, you must do also.”

As we continue to celebrate the glory that is Easter, let us ask the Lord today for the grace and strength to ponder His promise with renewed faith. Remember, two weeks ago, we celebrated Divine Mercy Sunday. The awesome words Jesus gave to St. Faustina need to remain in our hearts and lips always: “Jesus, I Trust In You!”

The Good Shepherd sometimes needs to push the sheep in the rump with his staff in order to get them to go where they need to go and hear what they need to hear! Welcome to the reality of being a sheep of Jesus!

A wonderful witness to all of the above is one our parish celebrates again this weekend … more of our children making their First Holy Communion. When we see our children making their First Holy Communion, it should rekindle within us that Eucharistic flame of faith and trust that we profess. When we witness their innocence and wonder at receiving Jesus for the first time, it should make us pray for that same innocence of faith, that same innocence and trust to follow the lead of our Good Shepherd. It serves as an occasion of renewal and rededication not only to the Holy Mass and the Sacred Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, but also to learning more about our Catholic faith, our traditions, devotions and truths!

On a completely other note, the parish will be offering another Fish Fry this coming April 30th from 4:30 to 7:00! You know, the drive-through format is proving to be more successful and less work than the usual sit-down style. Again, a free-will offering will be gladly accepted!

This coming Wednesday, April 28th at 7:00 pm, our candidates for Confirmation will be presented to Archbishop Charles at the Cathedral. Let us congratulate Noah Origer, Kade Clayton, Addyson Beaman, Camden Brewer, Averie Wray, Alexa Stiff, Thaddeus Brown, Brody Saylor, Aiden Whetstone and Logan Fraley. May God bless them abundantly on this next step of their Catholic formation and life!

May Jesus, our Good Shepherd, our Eucharistic Jesus, always smile upon us all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

Third Sunday of Easter, April 18, 2021

+Dear Friends,

How appropriate that we hear the continued Gospel story of the journey to Emmaus on this Third Sunday of Easter! The two disciples of Jesus were in the depths of despair following the crucifixion of Jesus. As they made their way from the Holy City to Emmaus, they simply couldn’t believe that Jesus was gone. Note well that they were on their way from Jerusalem. They were not sticking around to face possible repercussions for being followers of Jesus.

And so, how does our Lord choose to reveal Himself to these two frightened disciples? He chose the exact manner in which He reveals Himself to us today … and to our first group of boys and girls making their First Holy Communion, in the Word and Holy Eucharist! CONGRATULATIONS TO Aliana Baer, Lauren Bean, Maverick Boyer, Raegan Brescher, Rowan Daley, Shane Kimble, Garrett King, Mason McClain, Amber Muncy, Jonathon Quearry, Alexa Schmitt, Kaitlyn Slajchert, Zoey Snider, Grady Tennery, Raleigh Tietje, Abigail Wichman, and Audrey Wray!

Today, we have the benefit of two thousand years of proven history on our side when we begin to lose hope; historical proof that the two disciples did not have. We stand on their shoulders in Eucharistic hope and truth! We know, without a doubt, that Jesus Christ remains in our midst in the Most Blessed Sacrament, always inviting, always awaiting us to come to Him.

If honest with ourselves, we will freely admit to numerous times of doubt, fear and questioning. It is part of human nature; it is a part of faith. I have said before and I shall say again, having doubts does not equal having no faith. On the contrary, it indicates a willingness to surrender and believe, to trust. As a people, we are so accustomed to having almost instantly in our lives, when we face something like faith and belief, we are at a loss are we not? I hate to sound like an old person (which I qualify for) but thinking back in our personal lives as well as history, it was easier to believe. Why so? Well, things took time; work, projects, gaining knowledge, researching a paper or assignment, building relationships. It was almost guaranteed we were used to waiting in times of prayer for “answers,” right? As life continues to race faster and faster, for which, on some occasions is a good thing, it will take more patience in our prayer lives. Again, it is a part of life; for good or bad. God will provide!

 Have a wonderful week, everyone!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

Second Sunday of Easter, April 11, 2021

+Dear Friends,

This weekend, the Church concludes what is referred to as the “Octave of Easter.” While the Easter Season stretches forth until the celebration of Pentecost, these past eight days are traditionally regarded as Easter Day itself; such is the Glory that is Resurrection! Also, each year on this Sunday following Easter, we listen to the Gospel story of St. Thomas … “the doubter.” St, Thomas has become almost the Patron Saint of those who are experiencing doubts, fears and anxiety in life. He refused to believe that the other Apostles had seen the risen Jesus.

“Unless I see the mark of the nails in His hands and put my finger into the nail marks and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.” Wonder if he truly is the patron saint of Missouri?!

None of us gathered here for Mass has ever had an encounter of seeing the risen, physical Jesus either … at least to the best of my knowledge. In faith, we gather each week, and even daily, for the celebration of the Mass, to be caught up once again in the love that flows from the death and resurrection of our Eucharistic Christ!

Sometimes we allow that love and faith to ebb as it did for St. Thomas. For me, I believe it is a fact of human nature. Even great saints went through periods of doubt and questioning. I know we are in good company!

Let us turn to St. Thomas, praying that through his intercession our faith will remain strong; that through the grace of the Sacraments, it will be made ever stronger!

This Sunday following Easter is designated Divine Mercy Sunday. Saint Faustina, a young nun of Poland, had the vision we see depicted in the image of Divine Mercy. The words “I trust in You!” are placed below the feet of Jesus. How very appropriate that, during the glory of the Easter season, we proclaim and celebrate the Mercy that is Jesus Christ!

***A note concerning the next THREE Sunday’s 10:30 am Masses: Due to the fact that we are still under distancing requirements and given the fact that we have 17 (!) boys and girls celebrating their First Holy Communion, the class will be divided and thus on April 18, April 25 and May 2, the parish will celebrate First Holy Communion! Due to the normal high number of folks attending those Masses, if you do NOT have a family member making his or her First Holy Communion, you might consider attending either the Saturday 5:00 pm or Sunday 8:00 am Mass. It is a happy reason to celebrate!

May you continue to bask in the glow of Easter joy! God bless!
Father MIchael Fritsch

 

 

Easter Sunday, April 4, 2021

+Dear Friends,

A HAPPY AND GLORIOUS EASTER TO YOU ALL!! May the Spirit of the Risen Christ shine upon you on this most joyous day! To those visiting St. Mary, Queen of Peace via the internet, and those here for Mass in person, a hearty welcome!!

Today hundreds of millions around the world will gather spiritually to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. From St. Peter’s in the Vatican to Danville, IN; throughout the world, the defining event for the Church draws people from every race and culture to praise God for the mystery of Christ’s death and resurrection.

Each year, today’s celebration of Easter allows the believer to ask in his or her heart: what difference does the resurrection of Jesus make in my daily life? In the past year, since we last gathered to celebrate this holy day, have there been moments in my life in which the risen Christ truly shone forth? Have I lived my life in the light and joy of Easter faith or remained sealed in the tomb of sin, sarcasm and fear?

The Beloved Disciple, St. John, goes to great lengths in narrating the event of the Resurrection of Jesus. He wants us to know that, with his own eyes, he saw the burial cloths, folded neatly in the tomb. To arrange the cloths neatly, as they were found, suggests something quite unique. So, his account is precious evidence of a truly extraordinary event. The Beloved Disciple allows us to share in his own experience, to share in the moment when everything began to fit together, when he began to understand fully that death is not the end; Christ triumphs!

Today is the day of days to allow the joy of Easter to ring through our lives! Today is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it! Alleluia!

As we observe this most unusual Easter Sunday, always remember my friends that the Risen Lord remains in our midst, most especially in the Most Blessed Sacrament! Unite in prayer with your family spiritually to truly observe this most holy of days! The glory of the Resurrection dawns on our world in a time of continued uncertainty; but it DOES DAWN! Let us continue to pray for one another. Let us also pray that soon this pandemic disease will be vanquished from our midst!

This coming week, I will be down in southern Indiana for a few days visiting my good friend, Fr. Jim. He always asks about the parish, so I will give him your greetings and prayers to him!

On another note, the Noon Mass on Wednesday and Friday proved to be so popular during Lent, I have decided to continue Mass at the Noon time for the time being. Let us see how it goes! Hopefully, those who have been attending will continue … and more!

CHRIST IS RISEN, INDEED HE HAS RISEN! I wish one and all a very joyous Easter Season! God bless you all! ALLELUIA!!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

Palm Sunday, March 28, 2021

+DearFriends,

This weekend, the Catholic Church throughout the world and the majority of all Christiandom enters into the most significant days of the entire liturgical year: HOLY WEEK.

On PASSION or PALM SUNDAY, we offer a joyous demonstration of our loyalty to Christ our King. The Mass, however, with its solemn reading of the Passion, is under the shadow of the cross. “Hosanna to the Son of David!” is thus followed very soon by the cry, “Crucify Him!” In many Christian lives, too, the recognition of Christ, by attendance at Mass and living His eternal truths through His Bride, the Church, is contradicted by sinful acts which nail Him once more to the cross. This weekend is the time to sincerely renew once again our loyalty to Jesus Christ.

On Tuesday, many throughout the Archdiocese will gather at the Cathedral to celebrate the CHRISM MASS at 2:00 pm. At this Mass, the holy oils to be used throughout the year in the celebration of the Sacraments will be blessed and distributed to all parishes. At this Mass, the priests of the Archdiocese renew our ordination promises. It is a beautiful symbol of our unity and oneness with the larger Church, represented by Archbishop Thompson.

On Thursday, the Catholic Church throughout the world begins the SACRED TRIDUUM. The days of HOLY THURSDAY, GOOD FRIDAY, and the EASTER VIGIL are the holiest and most profound days for the Christian soul.

HOLY THURSDAY solemnly inaugurates the “Triduum during which the Lord died, was buried and rose again.” On this day our Lord instituted the Holy Eucharist; at the Last Supper, He prepared the Sacrifice-Meal that would through the ages unite His members in Himself. We are gathered with the Apostles to receive from Jesus the great gift of His own Flesh and Blood. Through the ministry of the priesthood, Christ remains present at every Mass. We solemnly commemorate the institution of the Sacrament of Holy Orders as well. On this night, Christ’s example of humble service is also brought to our minds through the Holy Gospel. Following the Mass, the Holy Eucharist is borne throughout the church and the church remains open until 9:00 pm for private adoration and prayer.

In the garden, Christ asked, “Could you not wait one hour with Me?” On this night, let us join with Him!

GOOD FRIDAY solemnly commemorates Jesus Christ’s sacrifice FOR US! We listen once more to the story of His Passion according to St. John, and then venerate the instrument of our salvation, His Cross. We pray for the needs of the world and finally receive our Lord in Holy Communion. Following the Liturgy, until the Easter Vigil, Christians experience something of the great void felt by the Apostles after the We gather in the darkening evening on Saturday for the death of the Lord. The church is locked, the Blessed Sacrament is removed. We keep vigil at the tomb of our Savior.

EASTER VIGIL to celebrate the Passover of the Lord! The light of Christ dispels the darkness of sin in our world and in our hearts as we welcome the newest members of the Church through Baptism and Profession of Faith. We renew our own baptismal vows and join in celebration of the Resurrection.

As your pastor, I invite you all to join in the observance and celebration of the SACRED TRIDUUM! These days take priority in our lives; we leave the clocks and watches behind and touch eternity. Please note the times of all Masses and Liturgies of this most Holy Week in the bulletin as well as on the doors of the church. Let us join in solemn prayer and keep vigil; for the Passover of the Lord is at hand! God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

Sunday, March 21, 2021

+DearFriends,

“I will be their God, and they shall be My people.” This profound statement is at the heart of the new covenant our Father established through Jesus Christ. God promised to “remember their sin no more.” This Lenten season has offered us opportunities to recall the covenant God established at the moment of our baptism through His Holy Church.

In that sacred moment, we became the sons and daughters of God…His people! Too often we forget this covenant and turn away from God. Lent is all about returning to the Lord with our whole heart, our whole mind, our whole soul.

On this Fifth Sunday of Lent, we begin “Passiontide.” The solemn two weeks before Easter is marked by the veiling of the sacred images in symbolic signage of the removal of the Holy from our sight during the crucifixion, death, and burial of Our Lord. Truly, the Church mourns Her Lord in these two holy weeks.

As we go forth today and continue our approach to Holy Week and the glorious celebration of Easter, let us remember the faithfulness of our Lord and God and offer thanks for the gift of the Lord Jesus Christ, Who, as today’s Letter to the Hebrews tells us, is “the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him!”

It is time to make some notes and jot some notes concerning the upcoming schedule of Masses and Liturgies for Holy Week. Much more will be included in the bulletin next weekend but for now, please note the following: Masses for Palm Sunday will be at the usual times of 5:00 pm Saturday, 8:00 and 10:30 am Sunday. Mass for Holy Thursday will be at 7:00 pm with the church remaining open until 9:00 pm for private prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. The Liturgy of Good Friday will be offered at 12 noon. The church will then be locked until shortly before the solemn celebration of the Easter Vigil Mass, beginning at 8:00 pm Holy Saturday night. No Confessions will be heard on the Easter Vigil Saturday afternoon. Masses on Easter will be at 8:00 and 10:30 am. It is time to prepare NOW for Holy Week and make provisions to be HERE for these most sacred and holy of all days! THESE are days of priority for all Catholics….let’s make them so!

Let us keep one another in prayer as we journey toward Palm Sunday and all the blessed events of the Sacred Triduum!

A prayer-full Holy Week and Easter Season to us all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

Sunday, March 14, 2021

+Dear Friends,

Today the Church celebrates Laetare Sunday. Taken from the Latin for “rejoice”, we today hear of rejoicing in the readings. The Church points out to us, while in the midst of Lenten prayer, fasting and charity, that the glory and joy of Easter are approaching! The solemn violet of the vestments is set aside, and the rose vestment is worn. Mixing the violet with the glorious white of Easter, we have rose. And so, let us rejoice in our hearts!

We hear on this Laetare Sunday of the greatest mercy shown us by God our Father: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son.” We gaze upon the Son, “lifted up” for our salvation. We look upon Him “Whom they have pierced.” We behold the Son of God, the source of everlasting life! What perfect thoughts for a rejoicing Sunday! And, it is important for us to remember, that it is not merely by LOOKING upon Jesus that we may gain salvation. We must LIVE Jesus, the One Who was pierced for our offenses!

I remind one and all of the continuing “Light Is On For You” confessional schedule. Each remaining Wednesday of Lent, I will be available for confession from 6:00-7:00 pm. Of course, the regular Saturday time (3:45-4:30) continues as well. If you haven’t made a good confession during Lent…there is still time! Pick up an “Examination of Conscience” flyer in the vestibule to help make a good confession! In the bulletin, we continue to publish confession times available at both St. Malachy and St. Susanna as well.

It is not too early for you to start thinking and resolving to make the upcoming HOLY WEEK & PASCHAL TRIDUUM your priority as we soon approach those holy and sacred days of our Catholic Faith. Set aside those watches and have the resolve to be HERE for the holiest days of our Faith! PALM SUNDAY MASSES will be at the usual times. HOLY THURSDAY MASS will be at 7:00 pm. GOOD FRIDAY LITURGY OF THE LORD’S PASSION will be at Noon. EASTER VIGIL will be at 8:00 pm. EASTER SUNDAY MASSES will be at 8:00 & 10:30 am

Let us continue to pray for one another on our Lenten journey of faith!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

Sunday, March 7, 2021

+Dear Friends,

Some people are just never happy! At Mass this weekend, we hear of how the people grumbled against Moses, saying, “Why did you ever make us leave Egypt? Was it just to have us die here of thirst…?” They were actually saying that they would have preferred to stay in slavery rather than fending for themselves. It’s better to be a fed and watered slave than to be responsible for one’s self!

And so, Moses cries out to the Lord, “What shall I do with this people? A little more and they will stone me!” The Lord answered Moses, “Go over there in front of the people, along with some of the elders of Israel…Strike the rock, and the water will flow from it for the people to drink.” This Moses did. And the grouchy, ungrateful people had their thirst satisfied.

For us, this episode prefigures Christ Jesus and the life-giving waters of grace that flow from Him through His Church. It is through the life-giving waters of the Sacraments, given to the Church by Our Lord, that you and I have recourse to the true source of eternal life…thanks be to God!

We hear of this episode during Lent in order for us to concentrate once more on the treasure given the Church by Her Lord. All of us can become somewhat “jaded” in life. We can begin to take for granted the Church, the Mass, Penance, even the Lord Himself. The continuing pandemic certainly hasn’t helped either. FAR too many folks still haven’t returned to Mass. Honestly, I don’t get it. Ball games, shopping, even vacations are all “safe” but I guess Mass is not. It’s good for us to hear once again on the tremendous and awesome gifts that Jesus shares with us!

During this holy season of Lent, we need to try our best to grow in prayer and in the Presence of Jesus Christ. Remember during this holy time, Confessions are heard on Saturdays as normal AND each Wednesday from 6:00 to 7:00 pm. If you have been away for some time, take a copy of the Examination of Conscience found in the Narthex and use it to prepare to make a prayerful, contrite Confession! Remember something important: we use the Examination BEFORE coming to confession; not when we sit or kneel down and then read through it! Remember as well, confession is not a therapy session; it is the confession of sins. That needs to take place outside the Sacrament if necessary. As the old TV show Dragnet used to say: “Just the facts, Ma’am.”

As we continue our journey toward the glory of Easter, let us keep up our good works of prayer, fasting and charity! Have a good week everyone!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

Sunday, February 28, 2021

+DearFriends,

Today we listen to two stories that take place on mountaintops. In the first we hear the story of how Abraham was “put to the test.” I would say requesting a father to sacrifice his only son a “test” wouldn’t you? Remember, these were the days of child sacrifice, when it was entirely acknowledged and accepted that “the gods” desired such atrocities. Therefore, for Abraham to be instructed to do just such a thing, in his mind, this “new God” was no different than all the others. But we know the rest of the story, don’t we?

When Abraham stands ready to kill Isaac, the Lord God intervenes, prevents the sacrifice and blesses Abraham in great abundance.

In the second mountaintop story, Jesus takes Sts. Peter, James and John with Him in order that they might witness His transfigured glory. The passion lay before Him and our Lord knew in His Heart that the Apostles needed this spiritual epiphany in order to withstand it. Even so, we know that only St. John remained by our Lord’s side at the foot of the cross. So, even a direct sign from God didn’t seem to be enough for belief! I wonder if we can see ourselves in that category.

On this Second Sunday of Lent, to quote St. Peter: “…it is good for us to be here” in this sacred place, for this sacred act that is the Mass. It is also good for us to pray that we, too, may be transformed more and more into the beloved sons and daughters of our Father which we have been made through our Baptism. Our faith, too, needs strengthened; our trust needs to be made more real. For, many “passions” lie in our lives as well.

Remember how Martin Luther King once famously said: “I have been to the mountaintop.”? Well, our mountaintop is right here in St. Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church! Here, the glory of the Lord has been revealed and remains in our midst… the Most Blessed Sacrament of His Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity!

Just a reminder that “The Light is On For You” each Wednesday from 6 to 7 pm! I hope soon to be located back in the Confessional Chapel in place of downstairs. Either way, “confession is good for the soul!”

“It is good for us to be here.”You bet it is!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

Sunday, February 22, 2021

+Dear Friends,

Well, we have begun. We gather this day on the First Sunday of Lent. Holy Mother Church teaches us that two spiritual strands weave together to form the very nature of Lent.

The first, and most familiar to us all, is the repentant character of Lent. Through the penitential practices of prayer, fasting and almsgiving, we spend these forty days in the desert of repentance preparing for the glorious celebration of Easter.

The second strand is the baptismal character of this most holy season. Baptism? Yes, baptism. The unbaptized spend Lent in preparation for their baptism and reception into the Church and most of us, the already baptized, spend this time preparing to renew the promises we once made when we ourselves were baptized.

Today’s readings echo this biblical theme of covenant established between God our Father and us. As we go forth from this holy Mass, let us enter the Lenten desert of repentance, mindful of the promises made at our baptism when we rejected Satan and professed our eternal faith in Jesus Christ!

Now some might say it is difficult to do this. But, is it? Not really. We live our Catholic faith when we gather for Mass, when we celebrate the Sacrament of Penance, when we stop by and make a Eucharistic visit with Jesus, when we read the scriptures, when we celebrate the Stations of the Cross, when we pray the rosary, when we volunteer with Friends of St. Anthony or some other act of charity, when we donate to the special Lenten collections, when we keep the Lenten regulations regarding fasting and abstinence, when we unabashedly share our Catholic faith with another. See, there are many ways in which we live our baptismal faith! The important thing is that we do so!

Please note in today’s bulletin the Lenten regulations regarding fasting abstinence. Again this year, my brother Knights and our youth will offer the annual Lenten Fish Fries from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. for a free-will offering. It will be a drive through as we have done in the past. (ENTER FROM MACKEY ROAD). An added hour for Confession will take place on Wednesdays during Lent from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.! A great time to make a good Confession!

Some have asked about the move into the new building. We are getting very close! There was a problem with the floors in the classrooms, but that is being addressed. Of course, we are dependent upon the weather also! I will keep you all posted for sure and certain!

Make it a good and holy Lent! Let us pray for one another! Gott bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

Sunday, February 14, 2021

+DearFriends,

This is one of those Sundays when we should especially stand back and marvel, truly marvel, at the works of our Lord Jesus. In curing the leper, Jesus broke down barriers that had existed for centuries. With one simple gesture of healing (like that is “simple”!), Jesus changed everything.

He stretched forth His Hand to the leper and touched him, making the unclean clean. The image of healing is so very beautiful, isn’t it? Jesus touched the man. The beauty lies not only in the physical healing of the leper but in the sacred and joyous act by our God of touching man.

It should be easy for all of us to reflect in our own hearts on the areas of our lives that need this healing touch of Jesus Christ. Perhaps it is a hardened heart; filled with bitterness and bile, distorting our facial expressions and all but hanging a sign around our necks that says: “Get outta my way. I’m not interested in anything you may have to say to me. I’ve formed my opinion about you and I’m not open to changing it.” Sound familiar to you? Or perhaps it’s an apathetic and I might even say pathetic prayer life. “I’m too busy to pray. I don’t think God cares if I am at Mass or go to confession. I’ll just keep doing what I’m doing.” Again, sound familiar? Sadly, one can see these attitudes each day, even at Mass.

Let us be reminded, dear brothers and sisters, that at our Baptism we were washed clean by the touch of Christ Jesus through the hand of His priest. Let us remind ourselves that each time we come to confession, we are washed clean by the touch of Jesus through the hand of His priest. Let us remind ourselves that we are fed and nourished by the Sacred Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ through the hand of His priest at each Holy Mass. Let us remind ourselves that our dear Lord remains a “Prisoner of the Tabernacle” of His own divine choice, for us and our salvation. Why do some stay away?

Let us pray at this Mass for one another. Let us pray for those who have stopped attending Holy Mass or have left the True Church, that they may come home. Let us pray for one who is truly hurting.

An important reminder: this next Wednesday, February 17th, is ASH WEDNESDAY!An important note about Ash Wednesday this year…if you have ever watched Mass from Rome on Ash Wednesday, perhaps you may have noticed how the blessed ashes are given. Unlike here in the USA, the ashes are sprinkled upon the crown of the head. Priests have been directed to follow that practice this year. So when you come forward, the blessed ashes will be sprinkled upon the crown of your head. You might mention this to anyone who may not read this. I copied an article in last week’s Criterion which goes into further detail about this most ancient practice!

Masses will be offered at NOON and again at 7:00 pm. The day is one of FAST AND ABSTINENCE. Please see the bulletin for mor information in this regard. CONFESSIONS will be heard on Wednesdays of Lent (“The Light Is On For You!”) from 6:00-7:00 pm!

Come, let us make our Lenten journey together!

And, on a similar note, during Lent, the Wednesday and Friday Mass time will be NOON, rather than the usual 8:30 am. Many have said how much they like the Noon time on Holy Days, so I thought, “Let’s give it a shot.”

May God, Who has begun this good work in us, bring it to completion!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

Sunday, February 7, 2021

+Dear Friends,

“I shall not see happiness again.” With these mournful words, Job concludes his lament to the Lord. Job was obviously in the depths of despair. His words are echoed in our own lives at times.

Jesus has something else in mind for us. The story in St. Mark’s Gospel of the curing of St. Peter’s mother-in-law shows us that the Lord wants to lift us up out of despair when it buffets us. To put it in other words, when life seems tough and almost unbearable, Christ stands beside us, offering courage and strength.

The Gospel is good news for us! If today is one of those days or times when we are feeling particularly burdened by illness, disappointment or despair, let us, like the townsfolk in today’s Gospel story, bring our cares and gather them at the Lord’s altar. The healing of Jesus continues in His holy Church. Now, it is our turn. When we humble ourselves to make a good, heartfelt confession with the firm desire of amendment, we are healed. When we come to receive Jesus in the Holy Eucharist; we are healed. But we dare not end there. Certainly, each one of us knows someone who is waiting for the healing touch of Jesus. Perhaps He looks to US to extend His healing touch. With hope, let us be attentive to the healing power of our Eucharistic Lord!

A note concerning last year’s blessed palms…due to the fact that so many did not receive palms because of the Covid shut down, I am asking those you did receive palm, to burn them in your garden or yard. We do not need to collect any to burn for Ash Wednesday! Danke, bitte.

On a personal note, with the rainy, cold, dreary, Covid situation we continue to find ourselves in, and having had Covid, my very good priest friend, Fr. Jim and I have escaped for the next several days. I gotta get out of here! Being extroverted, I am ready to climb any wall or leap any tall building! This really isn’t a true vacation; that involves a white sandy beach or somewhere where the weather is different! As you already know, a Cross priest is here this weekend…thank you, Father!

God bless you all and have a great week!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

Sunday, January 31, 2021

+Dear Friends,

One commentary on today’s Gospel makes the point that one line of the Gospel stands out: “The people were astonished at His teaching.” St. Mark, of course, is speaking about Jesus’ teaching in the synagogue at the beginning of His public ministry. The reason for their astonishment? It was because Jesus taught truth and with perfect conviction.

Looking at our own lives, sometimes we come to Mass or other times of prayer and the words of the Scripture or prayers wash over us. Like the man with an unclean spirit in today’s Gospel, we can have too many “spirits” of our own that distract us and make us less receptive to the grace of God. We’re not possessed, but we could very well be obsessed with the cares and worries of life when we try to pray.

As we hear how Jesus drives the unclean spirit from the man, let us ask the Lord to drive from our hearts any distractions or sins that prevent us from knowing the true power and joy that only He can offer us! As we gather for Mass and then go forth, let us pray that our hearts will not be hardened, but open to His grace and mercy!

This coming Wednesday, February 3rd, the Church celebrates the feast day of the martyr, St. Blaise. Long invoked as the patron saint of those suffering from diseases of the throat, the prayers of St. Blaise are sought in a special blessing on his feast day.

St. Blaise first studied and became a physician. He was later ordained to the priesthood and made bishop of Sebaste in Armenia, where he was seized and carried off to prison by Agricolous, the governor.

On his way to prison, a mother whose child suffered from a disease of the throat implored his help. At his intercession the child was cured and since that time, his help has often been solicited. After cruel torture, the Saint was beheaded in the year 316AD.

Remember that ASH WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17TH IS APPROACHING. MASSES WILL BE AT NOON AND 7:00 PM. If you have ever watched the Ash Wednesday Mass from Rome, you may remember that the ashes are distributed in a slightly different manner than is normally done here in the US. This year, priests are directed to follow the Roman ritual of sprinkling the ashes on the crown of each person’s head, rather than in the shape of the cross on the forehead. Again, the blessing is the same; the manner is different. I wanted to make you all aware of this early. I didn’t want anyone to think it was some crazy thing that I just dreamed up! It would be interesting to research how it is done around the world in various places. So, be prepared for something different this year!

I will be offering “The Light is on For You” on each Wednesday of Lent (except Ash Wednesday), from 6 to 7 pm. By that time, I should be back in the confessional chapel. As was the case last Advent, there will NOT be a penance service. The regular time of 3:45 to 4:30 pm on Saturday also will be used.

Have a good week everyone. God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

Sunday, January 3, 2021

+Dear Friends,

The holy Christmas Season continues! This weekend of the new year, we celebrate the wonderful Solemnity of the Epiphany! It is a celebration of the manifestation of Christ Jesus as the true Light of the World; the Savior of Jew and Gentile alike!

It is an ancient tradition in Catholic households to ask God’s blessings upon the family home. Using chalk, the following is inscribed over the door: 20+C+M+B 21.

Of course, the initials represent the names of the three Magi, or Kings: Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar. As the Magi represent the entirety of humanity coming to and proclaiming Jesus as the Christ, the Messiah of all peoples, may we, too, proclaim Him in our lives and actions! We, too, are called to bring others to the truth and life that is Jesus Christ. What we have been given, we freely invite and share. May the holy Magi, pray for us!

It is also a liturgical tradition that the Epiphany Proclamation is read. I reprint here for your reflection:

“Know, dear brethren, that, as we have rejoiced at the Nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ, so by leave of God’s mercy, we announce to you also the joy of His Resurrection, Who is our Savior.”

“On the Seventeenth day of February will fall ASH WEDNESDAY, and the beginning of the fast of the most sacred Lenten Season. On the Fourth day of April, you will celebrate with joy EASTER DAY, the Paschal Feast of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

“On the Sixteenth day of May will be the ASCENSION of our Lord, Jesus Christ. On the Twenty-Third day of May, the Feast of PENTECOST. On the Sixth day of June, the Feast of the MOST HOLY BODY AND BLOOD OF CHRIST. On the Twenty-Eighth day of November, the FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT of our Lord Jesus Christ, to Whom is honor and glory for ever and ever. AMEN.”

Ladetur Jesus Christus!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

Sunday, December 27, 2020

+Dear Friends,

As we continue to bask in the Octave days of Christmas, Holy Mother Church calls us together to observe the Feast of the Holy Family.

In addition to St. Joseph, our Blessed Mother and Our Savior Jesus Christ, we meet two holy, elderly couples presented to us in today’s Mass: Abram and Sarah, and Simeon and Anna. The common thread that weaves through each of these people’s lives is that they longed for something. Who among us has not experienced this same feeling and desire?

For Abram and Sarah, it was for a child. For Simeon and Anna, it was to behold the Messiah before they died. Perhaps the message of these holy people is that for a people of faith, often what we greatly desire comes only after a very long wait. We can draw inspiration from the great faith and patience shown us by Abram, Sarah, Simeon and Anna!

As we continue to bask in the glow of the Christmas Season, my deep thanks to ALL who helped in ANY way with decorating our church for the wonderful time of Advent and Christmas! The church always looks beautiful at this time of year.

Remember this coming Thursday and Friday is the celebration of Mary, Mother of Gott!Masses will be offered on New Year’s Eve, December 31st, at 4:00 pm and Friday, January 1st at 10:30 am. How wonderful to celebrate Mary, Mother of our God so close to Christmas! Without Mary, Jesus could not have become Incarnate in human flesh. Thus, the ancient adage: “To Jesus, through Mary!”

I wish to offer you all my humble thanks for your kind gifts and remembrances at Christmas! I wish you all a very Happy and Healthy New Year 2021! May the good God bless us, our families, our parish and our world in the coming new year!

Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

Sunday, December 20, 2020

+Dear Friends,

In the reading today from Samuel, we heard, “I have been with you wherever you went.” That should echo in our hearts as we prepare for next week’s celebration of Christmas. We heard today of the Lord’s enduring presence as shown to the Blessed Mother, who accepts the invitation to bear the Son of God within her. At that moment of our Lord’s conception within her, God’s promise of faithful endurance and presence is proclaimed … thanks be to God!

During this Advent season we have waited patiently (?) in joyful hope for the coming of the Lord Jesus. We have lifted our voices sang, “O come, O come, Emmanuel.” We have listened to the pleas of St. John the Baptist, who summons us to prepare the way for the Lord. We have been inspired by the prophetic words of Isaiah and Samuel, who gave us words of comfort and challenge.

The glory that is Christmas unfolds before us in just a few days! On Christmas Day, the Virgin Mary brings forth the Son of God and His Name is Emmanuel. Through the joy of our Catholic faith, we recognize that “God is with us.”

We will celebrate God’s becoming one of us in all things but sin. We will celebrate our dying and rising with Christ Jesus in Baptism. We will celebrate His enduring Presence in the Most Holy Eucharist. Truly, the Tabernacle in our church is the enduring manger of Christ!

Please note in the bulletin, as well as at the entrance of the church, the Mass schedule for the Solemnity of Christmas. On Christmas Eve, Mass will be offered at 4:00 pm. Midnight Mass begins at the stroke of midnight. Mass will again be offered on Christmas Morning at 10:30 am. December 26-27 is the Feast of Holy Family. The regular Mass schedule will be in place. NOTE: the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of Gott Masses will be on New Year’s Eve at 4:00 pm and January 1 at 10:30 am.

As we journey through this fourth and final week of Advent, let us do our very best at preparing our hearts to celebrate with joy the Incarnation of Jesus. May He touch our hearts this week as we prayerfully and humbly call to mind that He has come to us, that He is with us and that He will come again in glory!

AND, BECAUSE THIS IS THE FINAL BULLETIN BEFORE CHRISTMAS, A VERY MERRY AND BLESSED CHRISTMAS TO ONE AND ALL!!

Oh, Come, Let Us Adore Him!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

Sunday, December 13, 2020

+Dear Friends,

It’s hard to believe but this weekend we celebrate Gaudete Sunday, the Third Sunday of Advent. “Time flies when you’re having fun.” Coming from the Latin for “rejoice”, today the rose candle of our Advent wreath is lit. The blending of the penitential violet and the white of Christmas gives us cause to rejoice that the glory of Christmas draws near!

Last week, the Letter of St. Peter reminded us to conduct ourselves in holiness and devotion as we await the coming of our Lord Jesus. This week, the prophet Isaiah tells us what it means to be someone upon whom the Holy Spirit comes to rest.

When each one of us was baptized and later confirmed, the Holy Spirit came upon us, making us sons and daughters of God. As we heard in today’s first reading, let us pray that we will become more and more a people who bring “glad tidings” to others. Let us pray to be a people of Advent hope and joy rather than one from whom others turn away because our demeanor and countenance says anything but joy.

On this Gaudete Sunday, let us pray for one another. In a world torn apart by Covid, closures, abuse, lay-offs and all the other evils mankind must somehow survive, let us pray that each of us draws closer to our Eucharistic Christ. It is only through, with and in Jesus in the Holy Eucharist that we will ever know peace, not only for ourselves but for our world as well. Sometimes it’s not always easy to remain hope-filled. Our fears, anxieties, and own lack of confidence in Jesus’ Presence can make it almost impossible to remain in Advent hope. That’s where we can help one another. Every day, pray for others. Offer your own doubts and fears that another may know Jesus and His Presence. You may never know who this other person was or is that your prayers have helped. It is enough to know that they have helped!

Please note well via the bulletin and website, the Christmas Mass schedule! It remains the same as in the past with some very notable exceptions … Our capacity for each Mass will be right at 160 ONLY. “First come, first seated”, will be the norm. There will be NO holding of seats as in the past years; it is not fair to others coming to Holy Mass. The Ministers of Hospitality will be keeping count for each Mass; when we reach capacity, that will be it. This year, “it is what it is,” beyond our control. Please do not feel badly if you make the personal decision to watch our Midnight Mass on YouTube or Mass from Rome with Pope Francis. In these days, we take extra care for one another. IF you are planning on attending and are in one of the various ministries, PLEASE sign up with Mary Kay Hood.

I continue to be here for confessions each Wednesday from 6-7 pm in the lower level during Advent. Also, of course, on the usual Saturday schedule. We have had a great turn out for confessions thus far! Keep it up!

Last year, before the pandemic hit us, I had begun praying about our monthly offering of First Thursday time of Eucharistic Adoration. For the past two years, no one has signed up for a half hour of Adoration; often leaving only one adorer present in the kirche. This fact has been consistent for quite some time; month after month. This is not safe for any adorer, be it male or female. Due to perhaps many factors, including, but not limited to, lack of time or interest, I sadly announce that our monthly First Thursday Adoration has ended with last week’s offering. I will continue to offer monthly First Friday Adoration/Benediction one half hour before our 8:30 am Mass. Perhaps in the future, our extended Adoration will return. We can only pray it is so!

Come, Lord, do not delay! Come to us, abide with us! God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

Sunday, December 6, 2020

+Dear Friends,

The season of Advent is a wonderful liturgical time. We are treated to a myriad of scripture readings and feasts that serve to inspire us as we wait in joyful hope for the coming of the Lord.

In today’s Mass, Isaiah announces that the glory of God will be revealed and that we are to have no fear as we anticipate the tremendous burst of glory that the Lord’s coming will ignite. St. Peter reminds us to conduct ourselves in holiness and devotion as we ready ourselves to welcome the Lord at the end of time.

The central figure for this Second Sunday of Advent is, of course, St. John the Baptist, who points not to himself but to the One Who is to come, Who will baptize with the power of the Holy Spirit! It’s not too terribly hard for us to realize that it is WE are to point the way to Jesus Christ in our world today. It is WE who are to repent, make ready and prepare to welcome Jesus!

Please note in the bulletin, the Mass times for the upcoming SOLEMNITY OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION. Mass will be offered on December 7th at 7:00 p.m. On December 8th, Mass will be offered at 12 noon. It is our national patronal feast day and of course, a Holy Day of Obligation. We celebrate the truth of revelation that the Blessed Virgin Mary was conceived in the womb of St. Anne without inheriting the stain of original sin.

Mary was chosen before time began by the heavenly Father to be the Mother of Jesus, in Whom we are baptized. Just as Mary was chosen to bear the Christ, so, too, each of us are chosen to bear Christ to others. As we gather to celebrate Mass in her honor and hear the familiar story of the Annunciation, let us ask God to enter our hearts this Advent season! Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, may we be found prepared to meet the Lord when He comes again in glory! Come, let us adore Him!

I wish to remind you all that each Wednesday of Advent from 6 to 7 p.m., “The Light is on For You.” I will be hearing confessions in the basement location. I remind you also, to check our bulletin for the times of confession offered at our neighboring parishes of St. Malachy and St. Susanna. No parish in the west deanery is offering a Penance Service this year. Naturally, our Saturday schedule of 3:45 to 4:30 continues as well. “Prepare the way of the Lord!”

Some have asked me where I got the St. Michael statue. Believe it or not, it was given to me by none other than Fr. Charlie while we were both serving parishes in Bloomington; small world! I am issuing an invitation/challenge to all the “Michaels” in our parish, including myself; all those with sons named Michael, all those whose Dad is a Michael, who have a sibling named Michael, to join me in securing a beautiful statue of St. Michael for the new narthex! I found one on a site that buys beautiful sacred items from closed churches, schools, convents, etc. It is five feet tall and the detailing is wonderful. Not quite sure of the price but I believe it’s in the neighborhood of $3,500. For details, contact the office! We need the added prayers and protection of St. Michael more than ever!

May our Blessed Mother guide us as we continue our Advent journey toward her Son!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

Sunday, November 29, 2020

+Dear Friends,

Welcome to Advent! The new year of liturgical grace, 2021, has begun! The first words spoken by our Lord Jesus in today’s Gospel set the tone for this holy season of expectant longing: “Be watchful! Be alert!”

We stand ready at the beginning of this holy Advent season, for we do not know when Jesus will return in glory. We open our hearts to Scriptures and reflections that call us to be mindful of the ways of the Lord.

If our faith lives have become “withered like leaves,” as Isaiah laments, let God’s word instill new life in all of us! Let that word penetrate our hearts and fill us with life and joy. One of the beautiful aspects of Advent is the prospect of yet another “new beginning.”

Advent offers us the opportunity to prayerfully reflect on how we are doing when it comes to living, celebrating, and praying our Catholic Faith. Whether or not it is taking the time to come and celebrate the Sacrament of Penance, attending a daily Mass when one can, remembering the Holy Day of Obligation of the Immaculate Conception or taking part in our Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Advent is the time to begin anew. As we reflect on the message of today’s Mass, let this be our prayer: “Come, Lord Jesus!”

Don’t forget, the Holy Day of the Immaculate Conception is coming up! Vigil Mass on December 7th will be at 7:00 p.m.; on December 8th, Mass will be at Noon!

Also, remember “The Light is on For You” in place of an Advent Penance Service, I will be hearing confessions each Wednesday of Advent from 6 to 7 p.m. I will be hearing confessions downstairs in our current location. Make a good confession for Advent. The bulletin also contains the information regarding our neighboring parishes of St. Susanna and St. Malachy. No west deanery parishes are offering a penance service this year. Remember, also, our regularly scheduled Saturday confessions, from 3:45 to 4:30 p.m. will continue.

Another reminder, 2021 Missalettes are available for a donation in the narthex. This will be YOUR missalette for the year; take home and bring to Mass with you. We cannot put the missalettes out as usual due to the pandemic.

I truly believe I can state without reservation, each of us prays that 2021 will be a much better year than 2020! We pray the virus finally leaves us and life can resume some sort of normalcy.

May our Advent Season be one of prayerful, expectant prayer, repentance, and joy!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

Sunday, November 22, 2020

+Dear Friends,

The readings for the entire liturgical year of 2020 led us to today’s celebration of the Solemnity of Christ the King and today’s Gospel from St. Matthew.

On this final Sunday before the holy time of Advent begins, the Lord Jesus tells us just how our activity will be judged when we finally “meet our Maker” face to face. The text is nothing short of chilling, for there is no escaping its central questions.

We are each asked to examine how we have or have not fed the hungry, given or not given drink to the thirsty, welcomed or shunned the stranger, clothed or ignored the naked, and visited or turned away from the imprisoned.

The Holy Spirit is our strength and our guide as we are formed into disciples. At the close of this liturgical year, let us turn to the Holy Spirit, seeking His help to respond to what our Lord Jesus commands of us in today’s Gospel!

Of course, it goes without saying that one can interpret our Lord’s commands in a spiritual sense also. When it comes to spirituality and knowledge of Christ Jesus, His Church, and most especially His Presence in the Holy Eucharist, there are many “hungry, thirsty, naked and imprisoned” people. Perhaps even more so, aiding in another’s eternal salvation is of utmost charity and kindness.

Let us think back to one year ago today, November 22, 2019. In what ways in the past year have I fed the hungry, given drink to the thirsty, welcomed the stranger, clothed the naked, and visited the imprisoned?

Please note in today’s bulletin, the Mass for Thanksgiving will be celebrated this coming Wednesday evening at 7:00 pm. Come, let us offer the true “thanksgiving”…the Holy Eucharist! Hope to see you at Holy Mass for Thanksgiving Eve!

As announced last weekend, we are making the new 2021 Misselettes available. Because of the continued restrictions, we cannot place them out for everyone to use and return as usual.

A reminder…this time around, I am asking anyone who wishes to have their own Missalette, to take home and bring back to Mass, to make a donation in the wooden box by the Missalettes to help defray their cost. They cost the parish $6.00 each. Every little bit helps the parish budget in these uncertain times! Thank-you for supporting this!

To one and all, a very safe and HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

Sunday, November 15, 2020

+Dear Friends,

During the earthly life of Our Lord, a “talent” was an extremely large sum of money. Sixty minas made up one talent and a mina equaled one hundred denarii. (Now that we have all of our economics straight!)

In Jesus’ day, an average worker earned one denarius a day. When Jesus told the parable we share today, He knew His listeners would realize that each of the servants had been entrusted with a huge sum of money by their master. This money, well invested, had the potential for earning a tremendous amount more.

The spiritual talents entrusted to us during our lifetime on earth also have the potential for yielding extraordinary results! These gifts must be invested! In other words, they must be used!

When used, they build up Christ’s Bride, the Church. They bring others the treasure that is our Catholic Faith. They bring the Good News of Christ Jesus. They bring us the great privilege of sharing in the sacramental life of the Church, of gaining the necessary graces to reach our goal of eternal life, of bringing others into the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus!

To be perfectly blunt, far too many Catholics squander the treasure that is our Catholic Faith. They fail to fully appreciate what the Holy Mass is…Heaven on Earth! Earth unites with Heaven as our Lord Jesus makes present His Eternal Sacrifice in an unbloody manner FOR OUR SOULS! How can any Catholic deliberately skip Mass? It’s unfathomable! Go ahead, make it a habit of skipping the Holy Mass and see where that gets you at your personal judgement. None of us is perfect but we must LIVE OUR FAITH to the best of our ability. Are we the “sheep or the goats?”

As the liturgical year of grace 2020 draws to a close with next weekend’s celebration of Christ the King, this parable asks us to assess the extent to which we have invested our spiritual talents. Their potential is extraordinary! How extraordinary are the results of our investment in them this past year?

ANNOUNCEMENT…In the narthex for the next two weekends, the new 2021 missalettes are available for use beginning the First Sunday of Advent. Because of the ongoing restrictions, we cannot have the missalettes out as normal for you all to use at Mass and then return.

Therefore, I am asking everyone who would like to have a missalette of their own to bring to Mass and take home, to please consider offering a donation in the wooden box by the missalettes to help defray their cost to the parish. They cost the parish $6.00 each, so anything you can offer will help erase some of the shortfall in our parish budget!

God’s richest blessings be yours today and always!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

Sunday, October 25, 2020

+Dear Friends,

“You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind.” This commandment, described by our Lord in today’s Gospel as the “greatest and first commandment,” is a fitting credo for every Catholic.

In order to fully comprehend this commandment, one must always remember to “link” it with the second commandment: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” With these two commandments at hand, we can live the lives Christ Jesus has called us to embrace. Some wise man pointed out that a beautiful way to visualize these two great commandments is to think of the crucifix. The crucifix is made up two beams; one vertical and one horizontal. Of course, the vertical beam is our relationship with Christ. The horizontal is our relationship with neighbor. You can’t have the crucifix with both beams. AND, you can’t have the crucifix without our Lord Jesus upon it! In other words, you can’t live the two great commandments without Jesus Christ firmly a part of both “beams” of your life!

Next weekend is rather unique. This year, the Holy Day of Obligation of the Solemnity of All Saints occurs. Obligation means just that . . . it is a solemn Obligation AND Privilege to offer Mass! All Saints’ Day is a perennial reminder to us to “stay the course;” to live lives consistent with the dignity given us at our Baptism. It is a celebration honoring all those holy men and women who remain our “superheroes” of living the Faith. They show us all that, yes, the life of Christ can be lived with joy!

While not an Obligation, the Feast of All Souls’ on November 2nd is a beautiful Feast of the Church as well. Mass will take place at twelve NOON on that Monday. Come, pray for and remember your beloved gone before us marked with the sign of faith!

I believe the letters and intention cards for this year’s United Catholic Appeal have been sent out by the Archdiocese. Our goal as a parish remains the same as last year $ 34,507.00. Last year we achieved $ 26,713.00 toward that goal. The Appeal helps in many ways throughout the Archdiocese, including OUR PARISH! We received a loan of $395k toward our building campaign in case we fall short of achieving the pledged amount BY YOU! Your generosity is outstanding! I thank you in advance!

May God continue to bless us all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

Sunday, June 7, 2020

+Dear Friends,

Today we are given the opportunity to ponder the mystery of God. That should keep us busy for awhile! In a conversation with Moses in today’s first reading, the Lord God declares, “The Lord, the Lord, a merciful and gracious God, slow to anger and rich in kindness and fidelity.” Reacting to this, Moses calls the Lord’s people “stiff-necked” and asks the Lord to pardon their sins and to receive them as the Lord’s own.

In the famous passage from St. John’s Gospel, we hear that “God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.”

Today’s Solemnity of the Holy Trinity invites us to praise our Father for His mercy, kindness and fidelity…shown us through the life, death and resurrection of His Only Begotten Son, Jesus Christ, through the power of Their Holy Spirit!

A central tenet of Christian faith, we worship One God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit! Just think of the many times we proclaim this faith. Each time we begin prayer, we do so “In the Name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.” Whenever we enter and leave the church, we sign ourselves with the Sign of the Cross in the Name of the Holy Trinity. When we bestow a blessing, we do so in the same Name. Jesus Christ revealed to us His Father and Holy Spirit….you can’t get a higher authority than that!

May the blessing of Almighty God, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, be with you today, and all the days of your life!

To you all: a deep, heartfelt thank-you for your support, encouragement and prayers during the ongoing pandemic. May God bless you for all you do and may we continue the healing in all regards! 
Father Michael Fritsch

 

May 31, 2020

+Dear Friends,

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!  Maybe you’re thinking, whose birthday?  Well, it’s the “birthday” of the Church….PENTECOST!  It is traditionally seen as the day on which the Church went forth to spread the Gospel truth of Jesus Christ.  Because each and every one of US, no matter our vocation or state in life, no matter our age or social status, by virtue of our baptism is required to do the same, it is proper to speak of today as our “birth” to evangelization; our “birth” to spread the truth and life of our Catholic faith!

The disciples of Jesus went forth from locked rooms to the big, wide world, armed with Jesus Christ, to speak in His Name, the message of salvation open to all peoples.  It serves as a beautiful symbol for all of us to break forth from the locked rooms we often place ourselves into and walk courageously on our own journey of faith, united in the Holy Eucharist!

Perhaps one of the most touching elements of Pentecost is the fact that what once was broken and wounded has now been healed.  Through Jesus Christ and His gift of the Holy Spirit, our broken and wounded world has been renewed!  On a much more personal level, this healing is ours for the asking!  Today, let us renew our dedication and commitment to the Sacrament of Penance!

It is so nice to have you all at Mass!  While severely limited in many ways, we are back!  Please continue to be patient during these weeks of slowly reopening.  And, pray with me that we do not see a spike in new infections!  I will let you in on a little secret….everyone is doing the best they can with directives changing almost daily.  One thinks he or she is ready one day then learns, no, that’s not the final protocol.  Again…. “patience is a virtue, possess it if you can; sometimes found in woman but never in a man!”

With the celebration of Pentecost Sunday, the Church moves into “Ordinary Time” once more.  We will celebrate next weekend the Feast of the Holy Trinity followed by the Feast of Corpus Christi.  Why not make your week anything but ordinary by attending a DAILY MASS when offered?

God’s Blessings Upon You All!

 

January 26, 2020

+Dear Friends,

The Gospel today tells us that Jesus “called them, and immediately they left their boat and their father and followed Him.” The call of the first of the Apostles, heard in today’s Gospel, is always placed at the beginning of this span called Ordinary Time as a reminder to us all that WE, TOO, have been called by Jesus and must make a response.

I think it is true that each of us can fall into the trap of thinking that once the glory of Christmas has been celebrated, we can sort of “coast” until Ash Wednesday and Lent begin! It’s human nature I suppose; we seem to drift between big events and become somewhat indifferent to the present. As Catholics, however, we KNOW that no time in our lives is truly “ordinary.” Every day we are blessed to have Jesus among us in the Most Blessed Sacrament! Now I ask you, how could this Treasure ever be “ordinary?” Jesus calls us to live our Faith each day; not just “special” moments or seasons. You all have heard the expression that if you wonder why Jesus seems further away, who really moved? Yep, it’s us, not Jesus!

Saint Paul, whose response to the Lord’s call resulted in a dramatic conversion, reminds us that we all “belong to Christ.” We belong to Him primarily through our Baptism, at which we were made members of His Mystical Body, the Church. We are nourished throughout our lives with His Sacred Body and Blood and cleansed of sin through His gift of Penance. What a life! What a gift! What a responsibility to live!

This, then, is our call from Jesus. Perhaps we could reflect today and at times of prayer this week on how we have responded to the Lord’s call to “Come, follow Me.” Let’s do so!

Give thanks for the gifts that Jesus Christ has given to His Church!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

November 24, 2019

+ Dear Friends,

The readings for the entire liturgical year of 2019 have led us to this weekend’s Solemnity of Christ the King. In the past few weeks, the readings have challenged us to look at the way we use the gifts Christ showers upon us so generously.

This week the Lord Jesus tells us just how our lives will be judged when we finally meet Him face to face. The Gospel is chilling in a sense, for there is no escape from the central question how we have or have not fed the hungry, clothed the naked, welcomed the stranger. It’s not an occasion to be accusatory of others.  It’s an occasion to be introspective and prayerfully look at our hearts as we offer glory to Christ our King. Perhaps we will see that it’s time to do a little re-ordering of attitudes and behaviors.

Today’s Solemnity of Christ the King is a symbol and celebration of the endurance of Christ’s Church and a sign of hope. Just call to mind all the kings and kingdoms of the world over history, of how they once ruled with power and oftentimes mercilessly. Think of those governments that persecuted the Church with such viciousness that countless scores of faithful became martyrs for Christ and the Faith. Think now that most are now all gone and the only one that has endured to celebrate the Kingship of Christ is the One True Church that He founded!

As we gather this coming week to celebrate our national day of Thanksgiving, we must call to mind the greatest blessing of them all……The Holy Mass! For this timeless, priceless Gift of Jesus Himself, our hearts, minds, souls and voices need proclaim our thanksgiving!

May our Eucharistic King bless us, our families, our parish and our world with His peace and His grace! Deo Gratias!

As of this bulletin, our parish stands at $17,218.00 toward our goal of $34,507.50. If you have not returned your pledge card for Time, Talent & Treasure for our parish and Archdiocese, please do so! Thank you all!

Next weekend begins the HOLY SEASON OF ADVENT! Hard to believe isn’t it? The Liturgical Year of Grace 2020 will be with us. Again this year, we will have the Magnificat Advent Prayer Booklets available for you to take home and pray each day of this holy time of preparation. It is not too early for you to mark your calendars for the ADVENT PENANCE SERVICE, DECEMBER 11^TH AT 7:00 PM! Again this year, I hope to have a total of 5 priests with us to offer the Sacrament. The examination of conscience pamphlets will be in the bulletin the weekend before the Service.

May God Who has begun this good work in us, bring it to completion!
Fr. Mike

 

May 19, 2019

+Dear Friends,

As the Easter season continues to unfold, even with the “Alleluias,” life can be tough. We live in an imperfect world, one marked by terrorism and war as well as the “ordinary” crosses that each individual may carry.

To this imperfect world and life of testing, the Lord Jesus proclaims in today’s Gospel: “I give you a new commandment: love one another.” We can look with sadness upon the world today, a sadness born from the knowledge that we simply do not love one another.

As followers of Jesus Christ, we simply must not allow this sadness turn into despair, for if this holy Easter-tide gives us anything, it gives us hope for our world and our lives as well. The commandment of Jesus begins in our own heart. It is within our heart that commitment and growth in our Lord Jesus comes about. However, we must realistically admit that this can sometimes feel overwhelming. Don’t we?

I was reading a reflection on this weekend’s Liturgy of the Word and it ended with this: Name a time when you found it difficult to love someone. How did you overcome this? A good thought for us all!

On a personal note….somehow, someone has gotten a list of some of my ‘contacts’ from my phone. Please note: If you receive a text from someone claiming to be me who is asking for gift cards, DO NOT respond! We have had three different parishioners contacted by this someone. It has been turned over to the Attorney General’s Office and police. Believe me, if I were to ask you for money….I would do so personally!!

Other than the above distressing fact, isn’t May wonderful? It finally appears to be springtime and open window weather! Enjoy the gift of God’s creation. This column is rather short, but I do not believe anyone will lodge a complaint!

God Bless You All!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

May 12, 2019

+Dear Friends,

A VERY HAPPY AND BLESSED MOTHERS’ DAY TO ALL OF OUR MOMS!! And, of course, we honor and love the Mother of us all…the Blessed Virgin Mary! How appropriate that at 10:30 Mass we celebrate May Crowning. For those of us who attended a Catholic school, how well we remember May Crowning each year. The nuns would practice with us again and again to make sure we processed from the school to the church, class by class, all singing the Litany of the Blessed Mother. One lucky girl from eighth grade would be chosen to crown the statue of Mary while a little First Communion girl would carry the crown. Believe it or not, my Mom and both of her older sisters all had the honor of crowning the statue over the years at Annunciation. I don’t think that was ever matched by another set of sisters!

“My sheep hear My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” Very appealing and comforting isn’t it? Or, is it? The words of Jesus offer us a unique challenge.

We all recognize certain TV shows or movies from their theme music. Who among us of the middle-aged variety, doesn’t remember the music of “I Love Lucy” or “Hogan’s Heroes”? How about theme music from “Jaws”? The same holds true for the younger folks among us; every generation or age group can relate.

We know the familiar melodies of favorite songs we hear on the radio, also. How many of you remember the theme of your junior or senior prom? When you were dating someone special you no doubt had “your” song, right?

All of this is important to call to mind when we reflect on today’s Gospel. Given the cacophony of music, sound and voices in our lives, just how easy is it for us to listen to the sound of our Good Shepherd? I submit to you that it is difficult. But, that’s the message of this weekend’s liturgies; listening AND acting upon the call of Jesus Christ! We hear of those in the Book of Revelation who are singing the praises of the Lamb, those are the ones that have listened with all their hearts and souls to the voice of Jesus and are with Him eternally. That’s our call and that is our privilege. What we have heard from Him; we must share. We pray for one another that it may always be so!

May Jesus in the Most Blessed Sacrament, bless us all! May we always receive Jesus with wonder and awe!

God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

May 5, 2019

+Dear Friends,

Our first reading recounts that the Apostles received what amounts to a court order to cease and desist speaking in the Name of Jesus. Their response? They left “rejoicing that they had been found worthy to suffer dishonor for the sake of the Name.”

I think we stand in awe at the depth of the Apostles’ faith and courage don’t we? We also need to pray that our own faith will be strengthened!

The Lord Jesus questions each one of us today, as He did St. Peter, asking us time and time again “do you love Me?” We know that either answer, “yes” or “no” bears consequences but most especially if we answer in the affirmative. Those consequences are all around us and are all about loving and feeding those whom the Lord entrusts to our care.

Strengthened by Christ’s Holy Spirit in the Sacraments, instructed and guided by the teaching of the Church, we are, like those fish, brought to Christ by the Church, symbolized here by the disciples. Brought to Christ, Who then teaches us, as he taught St. Peter, that to remain in communion with Him, we must look after and love one another; nurturing one another in the beauty of our Catholic Faith!

This weekend, we have a beautiful example of this. Parents, entrusted with the development and nurturing and practice of the Catholic faith in the lives of their children, will present their sons and daughters for their reception, for the first time, of the Sacrament of Holy Eucharist. That joyous celebration continues the wonderful journey in the spiritual development of these chosen young people. Let us congratulate and pledge continued prayer for: Bailey Blanton, Ethan Brames, Jaxson Clayton, Saul Cuatlacuatl, Mallory Dillon, Brooklyn Hamstra, Chloe Hensley, Brayden Higdon, Wyatt King, Aline Laranja, Sarah Monzingo, Gabe Origer, Liam Portwood, Addison Quearry, Kielee Springman, Ella Spurlock, Gavin Stewart, Olivia Tennery, Macy Thompson, Lilly Wichman, Alena Wigger and Liam Morris! May our Eucharistic Lord bless them always!

God bless us all as we continue on our Easter journey of faith!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

April 28, 2019

+Dear Friends,

Each year on this Sunday following Easter, we listen to the Gospel story of St. Thomas, “the doubter.” He has become synonymous with someone experiencing doubts, fears and anxiety in life. He refused to believe that the other Apostles had seen the risen Jesus.

“Unless I see the mark of the nails in His hands and put my finger into the nail marks and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.”

Poor guy. Let’s give him a break! None of us gathered here for Mass has ever had an encounter of seeing the risen, physical Jesus either. In faith, we gather each week, and even daily, for the celebration of the Mass to be caught up once again in the love that flows from the death and resurrection of our Eucharistic Christ!

Sometimes we allow that flow to ebb like St. Thomas the doubter, especially in the face of trials and pain. That’s only natural. We are human after all. But we need to remember the words of Jesus to St. Thomas: “Blessed are they who do not see yet believe.”

Let us turn to St. Thomas, praying that through his intercession our faith will remain strong, that through the grace of the Sacraments, it will be made ever stronger!

This Sunday following Easter is designated Divine Mercy Sunday. Saint Faustina, a young nun of Poland had the vision we see depicted in the image of Divine Mercy found to the right of the sanctuary here in our local parish church. The words “I trust in You!” are placed below the feet of Jesus. How very appropriate that, during the glory of the Easter season, we proclaim and celebrate the Mercy that is Jesus Christ! We pray that the Divine Mercy that is Jesus, will always be with us!

***An early note concerning the Saturday, May 4th 5:00 p.m. Mass: We will be celebrating First Holy Communion for our young boys and girls. Due to a very large class this year (which is a good thing!), the high number of folks attending this Mass will be considerable. If you do not have a family member making his or her First Holy Communion, you might consider attending either the Sunday 8:00 a.m. or Sunday 10:30 a.m. Mass.

May you continue to bask in the glow of Easter joy! God bless!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

Easter Sunday, April 21, 2019

+Dear Friends,

A BLESSED AND JOYOUS EASTER TO YOU ALL! I pray the spirit of our Risen Savior shine upon you, your families, and our parish on this most holy day! To all those visiting St. Mary, Queen of Peace parish, a most warm welcome!

Today, hundreds of millions of Christians around the world gather to celebrate the glorious resurrection of Jesus Christ. From small adobe churches in desert climates to grand cathedrals and basilicas, the defining event for the Church draws people from every race and language to praise God our Father for the mystery of Christ’s death and resurrection!

Today, the Paschal Candle burns brightly before us, announcing that Jesus Christ is the true Light of the world.

Today, the church is adorned with lilies and flowers of all sorts, announcing that our Lenten fast is completed and that Christ Jesus has emerged from the grave!

Today, we renew our baptismal promises and encounter the waters of Baptism as a lasting remembrance that we have “put on Christ” and are forever changed!

Today, gifts of bread and wine are placed on our altar, as at each and every Mass, and they become the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Christ given us in the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist!

Today, we are given the hope of everlasting life by a Savior Who suffered and died for our salvation. A Savior Who rose to glory and sustains His Bride, the Church, with the Bread of Life!

CHRIST IS RISEN; INDEED, HE HAS RISEN!!

As the parish community of St. Mary, Queen of Peace, let us today congratulate and welcome: Kimberly Decker, Savannah Hargarten, Bill Rogers, Emily Cuatlacuatl-Ramirez, Matthew Daley, Scott Garber, Allison Mills, Hannah Mills, Tiffany Mills, Alan Morris, Hunter Webb, Maddison Webb, and Paige Webb who were received into the Church at the Easter Vigil! We continue to pray for them as they continue their lives within the Mystical Body of Christ!

I would like to personally thank ALL those who helped in any way with the decorating, planning, supporting, and follow through connected with Holy Week and the Triduum! Your dedication to the Lord is outstanding. For, when we serve our parish, we serve Christ!

This next week, I will be taking a few days away with some priest friends. Again, I wish one and all a very joyous Easter Season! ALLELUIA!!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

April 14, 2019

+Dear Friends,

This weekend, the Catholic Church throughout the world and the majority of all Christiandom, enters into the most significant days of the entire liturgical year: HOLY WEEK.

On PASSION or PALM SUNDAY, we offer a joyous demonstration of our loyalty to Christ our King. The Mass, however, with its solemn reading of the Passion, is under the shadow of the cross. “Hosanna to the Son of David!” is thus followed very soon by the cry, “Crucify Him!” In many Christian lives, too, the recognition of Christ, by attendance at Mass and living His eternal truths through His Bride, the Church, is contradicted by sinful acts which nail Him once more to the cross. This weekend is the time to sincerely renew once again our loyalty to Jesus Christ.

On Tuesday, many throughout the Archdiocese will gather at the Cathedral to celebrate the CHRISMMASS at 2:00 p.m. At this Mass, the holy oils to be used throughout the year in the celebration of the Sacraments will be blessed and distributed to all parishes. At this Mass, the priests of the Archdiocese renew our ordination promises. It is a beautiful symbol of our unity and oneness with the larger Church, represented by Archbishop Thompson.

On Thursday, the Catholic Church throughout the world begins the SACRED TRIDUUM. The days of HOLY THURSDAY, GOOD FRIDAY, and the EASTER VIGIL are the holiest and most profound days of the Christian soul.

HOLY THURSDAY solemnly inaugurates the “Triduum during which the Lord died, was buried and rose again.” On this day our Lord instituted the Holy Eucharist; at the Last Supper He prepared the Sacrifice-Meal that would through the ages unite His members in Himself. We are gathered with the Apostles, to receive from Jesus the great gift of His own Flesh and Blood. Through the ministry of the priesthood, Christ remains present at every Mass. We solemnly commemorate the institution of the Sacrament of Holy Orders as well. On this night, Christ’s example of humble service is also brought to our minds through the Holy Gospel. Following the Mass at 7:00 p.m., the Holy Eucharist is borne throughout the church to the Altar of Repose for private adoration and prayer until 10:00 p.m.

In the garden, Christ asked, “Could you not wait one hour with Me?” On this night, let us join with Him in prayer!

GOOD FRIDAY solemnly commemorates Jesus Christ’s sacrifice FOR US! We begin at NOON. We listen once more to the story of His Passion according to St. John, and then venerate the instrument of our salvation, His Cross. We pray for the needs of the world and finally receive our Lord in Holy Communion. Following the Liturgy, until the Easter Vigil, Christians experience something of the great void felt by the Apostles after the death of the Lord. The church is locked, the Blessed Sacrament is removed. We enter into the tomb of our Savior.

We gather in darkness on the night of the EASTER VIGIL at 8:00 p.m. to celebrate the Passover of the Lord! The light of Christ dispels the darkness of sin in our world and in our hearts as we welcome the newest members of the Church through Baptism and Profession of Faith. We renew our own baptismal vows and join in celebration of the Resurrection.

As your pastor, I invite you all to join in the observance and celebration of the SACRED TRIDUUM! These days take priority in our lives; we leave the clocks and watches behind and touch eternity. Please note the times of all Masses and Liturgies of this most Holy Week in the bulletin as well as on the doors of the church. Let us join in solemn prayer and keep vigil; for the Passover of the Lord is at hand!

God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

April 7, 2019

+Dear Friends,

Traditionally, PASSION-TIDE begins with this Fifth Sunday of Lent.

The statues are covered as a visible means of the holy and glorious being withdrawn as our Lord faces the heart of His Passion and ultimate death. On the Fifth Sunday of Lent, St. Augustine contrasts the writing of the Law of Moses with what our Lord writes here on the ground. At Sinai, the Law was written on tablets of stone. Stone is excellent for recording…we still speak of something “set in stone,” for example. It speaks of permanence and durability.

Stone, however, also possesses the hint of death; think of headstones in a cemetery, for example. Stone can be used to kill. We see in this reading of the Gospel the intention of the people to stone Jesus. So, Jesus writes on the ground. Unlike stone, earth has the ability to bring forth life and produce good fruit. Stone can identify and make permanent a record of our sins; in a metaphorical sense of the word. Jesus desires to write of Divine Mercy on our hearts, that we might produce good fruit.

Today Jesus gives the adulterous woman a chance to turn away from sin and turn back to God. A remarkable part of the encounter is that she admits her sin; we often do not. We have a tendency to blame others; either personally or societal, for OUR sins. Jesus today offers us the same opportunity He offered the adulterous woman. Shall we take it?

Perhaps your personal Lent hasn’t been that great. Has it? Passion-tide is an excellent time to “reignite” and prepare for the glory of Easter. Use these last precious weeks of Lent to truly prepare for the Holy Triduum of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil!

On Tuesday, April 16, the priests of the Archdiocese join with Archbishop Thompson at the Cathedral at 2:00 p.m. to celebrate the annual CHRISM MASS. At the Mass, the Holy Oils for next year’s usage will be blessed and the priests renew their promises of ordination. It is always a beautiful Mass and I encourage any of you who may wish to attend! Pray for your priests!

May God, Who has begun this good work in us, bring it to completion!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

March 31, 2019

+Dear Friends,

Once again, this time of Lent, the Church observes Laetare Sunday. From the Latin meaning “rejoice,” it is a day to pause for a brief moment in our Lenten journey to rejoice over the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, which we celebrate most especially during the Sacred Triduum, ending with Easter Sunday. The solemn violet vestments are laid aside and the beautiful rose ones take their place. When I was younger, we always looked forward to Laetare; it meant Easter was on the way!

The first reading reminded us that the Father removed the reproach of Egypt from the Israelites. In other words, He removed their subjection to slavery, misery and years of oppression.

Like the ancient Israelites, we, too, have been freed, through the holy Sacraments of Baptism and Penance, from the oppression of sin and death. As we hear in the familiar parable of the Prodigal Son in today’s Gospel, “your brother was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.” And that is definitely cause for our rejoicing!

St. Augustine has an interesting notion: the elder son’s resentment at the mercy shown his irresponsible younger brother, shows that what truly upsets him is not his brother’s sin, but his own lack of opportunity to sin… or so he thought. Naturally, this entire parable prefigures the passion, death and resurrection of our Lord. So, whenever our Father sees a repentant sinner coming back to life in grace, He sees His Beloved Son. No small wonder God “runs” out to meet us in the holy sacraments!

St. Paul today expresses this as he says: “Whoever is in Christ is a new creation: the old things have passed away.”

Today, a day of rejoicing, focus on the ways that you have moved from the oppression of sin to a life of freedom. Have you? Through the Most Holy Eucharist and Penance, have you experienced being a “new creation?”

Remember to gather on Friday evenings at 6:00 p.m. to offer the Stations of the Cross. We have been using a version as seen through the eyes of the Blessed Mother. It is very reminiscent of the movie, “The Passion of the Christ.” Hope to see you all here this week!

We know that many of our folks are away enjoying Spring Break…lucky! Pray for everyone’s safety and safe return.

I need to call everyone’s attention to an incident which occurred a week ago. Someone stole a computer and other valuable items from the RE building. Luckily, there was an eye witness and the guilty parties were later apprehended. Everything stolen has been returned. It is another sad reminder of the times in which we live. Gone are the days when the church and other buildings could be left open.

I am bringing this to your attention to once more emphasize the very serious need we each have to insure the church and all other buildings here at MQP are LOCKED up and SECURED when events are finished!! Never assume that “someone else” will be sure everything is secured! Thank-you all!

I realize this is long but two more reflections. With Fr. Kevin Morris and Fr. Glenn O’Conner both passing away, it really hits home how the need for priestly vocations is a priority. Do you know that the entire deanery of Connersville for example, has just three priests now to fill places like Richmond, Connersville, Rushville, Cambridge City, etc? Here at the west deanery, our numbers are better, but not good. Believe me, we need more priests! It begs a couple questions, how many Masses are being offered on a weekend and what is the total attendance? Plus an even more poignant thought: how many vocations has each individual parish fostered to the holy priesthood? Put very bluntly, how many priestly vocations have been encouraged, nurtured and supported from Mary, Queen of Peace in let’s say, the past thirty years? How many priests have come from MQP? The answer? None. I am the last priest ordained from Annunciation in Brazil and that’s now close to thirty-four years ago!

I mention these startling facts for an important reason. As a parish, we need to truly encourage our boys and young men to seriously pray about “Jesus, what do You want me to do with my life?” Parents and grandparents need to encourage their sons and grandsons to pray about the priesthood, encourage and support a vocation! Several years ago, an older priest once said, “next weekend each priest should say to his parish: ‘I won’t be here next weekend, I will be having Mass at my home parish.’” He said this to make parishioners realize, “Wow, where does that leave us?” At every Mass offered here at MQP, we have a petition for more priestly vocations. Each First Thursday-Friday, we offer Adoration for the same intention. BUT, more can be done! Parents, talk to your sons! Encourage them to pray about the priesthood! I mean, seriously! God works in mysterious ways. There ARE priestly vocations here at MQP! Let us support them!

Have a prayer-full Lenten week everyone. Offer Jesus something special this week…see you at Daily Mass!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

 

March 24, 2019

+Dear Friends,

The very familiar story about Moses and the burning bush reminds us today that our God is shrouded in mystery. (And that’s a good thing!) Our life’s journey, as does our journey during the holy time of Lent, has only one goal: eternal life with Jesus Christ. As Moses approached the very Presence of God, he removed his sandals…he was on holy ground. Sound familiar? It should; we do the same each Good Friday as we approach and venerate the sacred cross of Jesus Christ!

The way to God is made more clear each time we gather to celebrate the Mass in this holy place we call St. Mary, Queen of Peace. The way is clearer each time we celebrate Penance. Jesus is The Way.

We listen, hopefully like eager children hearing a fascinating story for the first time, to words that bring us closer to Jesus Christ. The Lord Jesus’ words today remind us that the more we come to know Him, the more we are expected to respond in word and deed.

Jesus makes it quite clear in today’s Gospel that we are all sinners and have often times fallen short of His way. The wonderful thing is that He offers us the means by which to return to Him and to His Bride, the Church!

Perhaps we could each reflect and name one way that we have grown closer to Jesus during this season of Lent.

As we continue our Lenten journey, remember that the Stations of the Cross are offered each Friday of Lent beginning at 6:00 p.m!

This Wednesday, March 27, there will be NO CONFESSIONS FROM 6:00 TO 7:00 P.M! I must attend the Parish Council Meeting that night. There is a reminder on the front door of the church as well.

Believe it or not, we are now half way through Lent! Next weekend is LAETARE SUNDAY. Remember to wear something ROSE colored to Mass!

Let us continue those good Lenten resolutions!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

March 17, 2019

+Dear Friends,

“Your presence, Lord, I seek.” These words from today’s responsorial psalm sum up the mindset of Lent. Amid the many distractions that can draw our attention away from God, we come to this holy place called St. Mary, Queen of Peace to not only seek, but find, Christ’s eternal Presence in the Most Holy Eucharist!

On Mt. Tabor, our Lord allowed Himself to be recognized in the fullness of His Divinity by three of His disciples. He reveals Himself in glory so that, when there occurs in Jerusalem all that must pass in His Passion and death, these three would remember and understand that Jesus freely gave Himself up for us and our salvation. The Transfiguration of our Lord gives us all a hint of enduring Eucharistic Presence!

In the person of Christ’s priest, in the proclaimed word, in the gathered assembly but above all, in the Holy Eucharist, Jesus is present with and for us. What a gift! Let us open our eyes, our ears and our souls to the transfiguring love and compassion of Jesus on this Second Sunday of Lent!

Don’t forget that the Stations of the Cross are offered each Friday of Lent beginning at 6:00 p.m. It’s a great opportunity for families to pray together in Lent. And, with the exception of March 27th, Confession is available from 6-7:00 p.m. each Wednesday.

If you will allow me a moment of personal reflection, on February 28th, I lost a very good priest friend from the Evansville Diocese, Fr. Gordon Mann. He was only 59 years old. He had beaten leukemia in 2017 but it returned with a vengeance after Christmas last year and this time he lost the battle. He was a very gentle soul, a good priest, who suffered much throughout his life. As his oldest brother said at his funeral Mass, he suffered externally from the “slings and arrows” of others who berated him for holding fast to the teachings of the Catholic Church and saying things that are not exactly popular in our present day. For being a good priest; doing what he was called to do, he suffered much. He also suffered from within the Church; the judgments from brother priests who didn’t care for his “style” of doing things. Lastly, from within himself; always wondering if he was “good enough.” As his brother said, “Gordon, Who called you, man or Christ?” “If you are pleasing Christ, you are more than “good enough.” Pray for my friend. I pray that he has found his peace.

As we continue our Lenten journey, let us continue to pray for one another daily. Offer little sacrifices for the parish and individuals you may know in need of heightened prayer.

May God, Who has begun this good work in us, bring it to completion.
Father Michael Fritsch

 

March 10, 2017

+Dear Friends,

We have begun. The holy season of Lent is with us. At the beginning of Lent, the Holy Scriptures summon us to a posture of remembrance. For some reason, growing up at Annunciation in Brazil, having the advantage of the Catholic school and both being such solid, lived faith, I have always enjoyed Lent. I know, “Father how can you enjoy Lent!?” Well, for several reasons. We attended Stations of the Cross each Friday as a school, then I would go back that evening with my parents and grandma. Most often, I served with Father, carrying the crucifix or a candle. I always liked the purple vestments and extras. It was just so “Catholic!” There was always a big crowd for the Stations; of all ages, together as families. It was expected and most of us looked forward to it. It all helped my young faith to grow in appreciation of how lucky we were to be Catholic! All the ritual, the chant, the hymns, incense, holy water, all made a deep impression on me. Looking back now, I recognize that all of these influenced my vocation to the priesthood. I have never lost that sense of how blessed we are to be Catholic.

Just as the Israelites of old remembered the mighty acts that the Lord their God had done for them, so, too, are we called to remember what God has done for us.

As we begin our Lenten journey, let us focus on the gift that this holy season can be for each one of us. We celebrate the gift of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection! We grow closer to the Lord Jesus, Who suffered, died and rose to new life to save us from sin and opened the way to everlasting life!

Occasionally St. Luke likes to use a literary technique called inclusion, a phrase or theme appearing early in a book and then resurfacing approximately the same distance from the conclusion. Today’s Gospel includes one.

In the fourth chapter, the devil tempts and then departs from Jesus…for a time. Satan returns in the twenty-second chapter, entering into Judas, who then of course betrayed our Lord. We know Satan is not even remotely an equal to Christ. Jesus doesn’t bump into Satan by mistake, but is brought to the desert to triumph over him! Only much later is Satan allowed to re-appear and evil do its worst; an illusory triumph eternally reversed by Christ’s Resurrection!

What is central is not Satan’s temptations, but the nearness of God, which our Lord acknowledges by quoting Scripture to repel him. Lent is our time to pray about the nearness of God in our lives and how many times we push Him away by our sins and selfishness. The Church’s mandate that we pray, fast and give alms, are meant to help us acknowledge both our sins and the nearness and compassion of a forgiving God. Let us take advantage of this holy Season of Lent and all the many offerings afforded us to “repent, and believe in the Gospel.” Remember, the “Light is On For You”, the hearing of confessions, each Wednesday of Lent from 6:00-7:00 p.m. as well as the usual Saturday afternoons from 3:45-4:30!

Stations of the Cross will be celebrated each Friday of Lent at 6:00 p.m. Come as a family and share in Christ’s journey to the cross and resurrection. You can go the Lenten Fish Fry either before Stations or after!

The Magnificat Lenten booklet is also an excellent addition to Lenten prayer. Use it daily! Remember, whatever we choose to do during Lent, it is for the Lord, not ourselves!

“EUCHARISTIC ETIQUETTE #1”: It should come as no surprise that respectful etiquette in the church calls for no eating or drinking (except for water when necessary). This includes no gum chewing. We are in the very Presence of our God! We make a habit of speaking with Him before and after Mass. We’re blessed here at MQP to have a narthex for fellowship and visiting. Let’s remember to respect those who are at prayer before and after each Mass!

As we journey together this Lent, let us keep one another in prayer. Pray that we will grow closer to Jesus in the Eucharist and in reconciliation.

God Bless One and All!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

March 3, 2019

+Dear Friends,

As we gather for Mass, we stand on the threshold of the holy time of Lent. We pray that the Lord will lead us into the desert and speak to our hearts. We will enter the Lenten season of repentance. St. Paul reminds us that the word of the Lord will not be written on stone, but upon our hearts.

Lent will call us to be honest: we are sinners in need of our Father’s unending and boundless mercy. As we gather today, let us recall the example of Jesus. May His Holy Church be poured into new wineskins. Let us be those new skins!

As the ashes on Ash Wednesday are placed on our foreheads, let us ask the Lord to make this season of Lent a time of real and true renewal for us. Let us remember that none of us walks the journey of conversion and repentance alone. Together, we open our hearts and ears to hear Jesus. Together, we ask for forgiveness. Together, we are called to new life! One of the real dangers we all face is taking what I call the easy approach to sin.

Beginning in the 1960s, most of what we heard from homilies and other sources was the “communal or societal aspect of sin.” While this is certainly true, what unfortunately happened was an almost complete loss of “personal sin.” Where does societal sin come from if not personal sin? Folks began to have the impression that it is our culture and society that are at fault, i.e. sin, and not ourselves. We can readily see the results in the Church and surroundings today.

It seems that a majority no longer feel any sense of sin in their lives. It’s all society’s fault; thus, a catastrophic drop in Catholics opening their lives and souls to the grace of the Sacrament of Penance. This, coupled with the originally good idea of communal penance services, has resulted in the sad fact that many, many Catholics think the only time one needs to “go to confession,” is Advent and Lent. Wrong! I ask you, can anyone honestly and humbly say they commit no serious sin except right before Advent and/or Lent? I don’t think so. I already hear some saying “he’s telling us we are all terrible sinners.” No, I am not. What I am saying is we need to take a good humble look at our lives and, according to the teachings of Jesus and His Church, ask “do I need to go to confession?” Let’s ponder that as we soon begin Lent.

Elsewhere in today’s bulletin you will find the fasting and abstinence regulations for Lent. Remember, ALL Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence….(no meat products). Please use the Lenten calendar Magnificat booklet each day for a brief reflection to set your day aright. Of course, Mass will be available and there is no better prayer than the Mass to offer! We will also offer the Stations of the Cross each Friday evening beginning on March 8th. Through our Lenten practices, may we all grow closer to Jesus and His Eucharistic Heart! On most Wednesdays of Lent, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., confessions will be heard. Of course, confessions are heard on Saturdays from 3:45-4:30 as usual.

This weekend, we celebrate with the other parishes throughout the Archdiocese, the RITE OF SENDING AND ELECTION. By this rite, the catechumens and candidates of the Church in the RCIA become the Elect. They are sent forth from the parish to be presented to the Archbishop at the cathedral. Today, we welcome anew and congratulate our catechumens and candidates.

Note the time of Mass for Ash Wednesday: twelve noon and 7:00 p.m., March 6th.

God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

February 24, 2019

+Dear Friends,

This weekend, we welcome Fr. Wade Menezes of the Fathers of Mercy who is with us to conduct our Parish Mission! Fr. Wade was with us two years ago for a most successful Mission. Take advantage of his presence for confession and his daily conferences. Please note times of confession and Mass as well as Adoration!

In a time when we are at war, when the fear of terrorist attack grips many in our fragile world, today’s Gospel sounds forth. There’s no denying Our Lord’s words and command: “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” Can’t get much clearer than that, right?

Imagine our lives and world if everyone would live this commandment of Jesus. Yet, too often we don’t pray for our enemies, we neglect the needy, we hesitate to show another forgiveness and mercy… even if they don’t respect us. Today, our prayer is to embody this command of Our Lord Jesus Christ!

As we gather for Mass, we stand on the threshold of the holy season of Lent, beginning March 6th. Lent will call us to be honest and humble: we are sinners in need of our Father’s unending and boundless mercy.

As the ashes on Ash Wednesday are placed on our foreheads, let us ask the Lord to make this season of Lent a time of real and true renewal for us. Remember that none of us walks alone on the journey of conversion and repentance. Together, we open our hearts and souls to hear Jesus. Together, we ask for forgiveness. Together, we are called to new life!

In next weekend’s bulletin you will find the regulations for fasting and abstinence for Lent. Remember, ALL Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence….no meat products. Please use the Lenten calendar insert each day for a brief reflection to set your day aright. We also will have available the annual Lenten prayer booklets for your usage. We will also be celebrating the Stations of the Cross each Friday at 6:00 p.m. beginning March 8th.

God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

February 17, 2019

+Dear Friends,

Last weekend we heard the parallel stories of conversion of Isaiah, St. Paul and St. Peter. This weekend we hear parallel discourses concerning those who put their hope and trust in the Lord and those who do not.

The prophet Jeremiah reminds us all that those who turn their hearts away from the Lord will be cursed. Not exactly something one wants to hear, right? The one who trusts in the Lord will be blessed and blossom like a tree planted near the waters of a stream.

In the familiar Gospel passage read today, we hear the Beatitudes. I like to think of them as “attitudes of being.” These inspiring words remind us that everything changed the day we were baptized into Christ and His Church. If we choose to continue to trust in the Lord, we are counted among the blessed.

One often finds the Beatitudes being misinterpreted. When Jesus speaks of the “poor in spirit” for example, He’s not speaking simply of the physically poor. When we speak of the “meek, who will inherit the earth,” He’s not speaking of a cowering, whimpering mouse. In these and the other Beatitudes, Our Lord is speaking of the practice of the faith. He’s speaking of the need to stay the course; to be courageous in the proclamation of the faith; to be humble and to rejoice when persecuted for our faith. Placed within this context, it’s easy to see and understand what Our Lord was intending to say.

One of the great Patristic Fathers of the Church, St. Gregory of Nyssa, wrote: “No matter how hard I try, when it comes to God’s power or wisdom or goodness, I cannot be like God. But to make myself poor, in the sense of these Beatitudes, to empty myself of all my egoism and selfishness, that is an option, a choice I can make, if I will.”

Perhaps as we draw ever closer to Ash Wednesday and the start of the holy season of Lent on Wednesday, March 6, we could prayerfully consider how we have turned our hearts to the Lord Jesus, placing our trust in Him. How are we doing? How are you doing? How am I doing? Masses will be offered at Noon and 7:00 p.m. on Ash Wednesday and the first Stations of the Cross will be at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, March 8th.

Have a prayer-full week, everyone!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

February 10, 2019

+Dear Friends,

This weekend while I am away, we welcome Monsignor David Walker from Food for the Poor, to St. Mary’s. Welcome, Monsignor!

Most of us would regard good memory as a blessing. Good what? Oh, yeah, good memory! Yet a great Doctor of the Church, St. John of the Cross, warned that spiritual growth requires memory to be brought under strict control. Why?

For St. John of the Cross, an undisciplined memory churns up past sin, recalling the momentary enjoyment/ pleasure…and the lasting regret. So it was with the prophet Isaiah and St. Peter. Just when growth in the spiritual way beckons, sin rises from the dust of memory, points an accusing finger and asks, “Are you sure you desire to grow closer to God, with me in your baggage?”

When are we most likely to understand the full horror of our sins than when we truly appreciate the compassion and mercy of God? We overcome those sad memories when we have offended God through the virtue of hope, telling us to look not back, but forward to the life in and of Christ.

We cannot and should not forget our sinful past, but our past must be just that: past. I always remember former Archbishop Daniel saying: “We cannot hold ourselves prisoners to the past.” Of course his point is the same as the Lord’s; what is past is proloque, do not hold yourself in chains because of past, forgiven sins. In an ironic sense, to do so, is truly prideful. It is almost as if we are saying to Jesus, “I know You say I am forgiven, but I just won’t believe it; I cannot accept it.” Remembering what Jesus in effect told St. Peter: “Fear not the past. I have something better for you.” Step out into the deep and trust in Christ. Now, that is a good memory to hold on to!

I want to say a BIG THANK-YOU to those who are continuing their Campaign pledge and also to those who had yet not started but have now! We are so very close to the point of approaching the Archdiocese to obtain the remaining portion of the total project in the form of an Archdiocesan loan. Simply put, the more pledges we have paid in, the less our parish will have to borrow; the shorter time it will take to pay down the loan. Again, thank-you for supporting your parish!

It’s a tad early, but remember ASH WEDNESDAY is on the horizon. Masses will be March 6 at noon and 7:00 p.m.

Have a prayer-full week, everyone!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

February 3, 2019

+Dear Friends,

Returning to His hometown, having become somewhat of a celebrity, our Lord Jesus neglects to abide by certain etiquettes of polite society. One could say, a local boy makes good, comes home, puts on a grin and asks that a fuss not be made about him. Genuine humility cannot embrace lies, even polite ones.

So Jesus speaks the truth. Nazareth is told to ask itself why miracles being made present in Capernaum were not being done there. Why, indeed. Nazareth declines the implicit offer of conversion and tries to throw our Lord off a cliff; great homecoming, huh?

Genuine humility and love, extolled by St. Paul, exemplified by our Lord, is not the empty affirmation that polite society exalts. Instead, Jesus looked His neighbors in the eye, looks us in the eye, and when necessary says, “No, it’s not all right, the way you are. But you don’t need to stay that way. Hear and accept the Good News.”

Ask yourself today: would Jesus say to me, right now, “are you ready to live in My Kingdom?”

Some have asked what my thoughts are concerning the action of Governor Cuomo of New York, who last week joyously signed into law the most liberal abortion law in the country. For those who are not aware, the new law allows the aborting of a baby up to moment of birth for whatever reason. The rousing applause, laughter and smiles masked the most reprehensible abortion law yet. Cuomo, who touts his “Catholic Faith” often, sees no contradiction in the action he signed. It is totally beyond comprehension how he can profess Catholicism and yet sign into law something taken from a page of Hitler’s Reich. Yes, Hitler. The German mentality at that time went like this: “It’s alright to murder Jews; they aren’t human beings anyway.” Cuomo’s goes like this: “It’s alright to murder the fetus, i.e. baby; it’s not a human being anyway.”

I do not judge bishops or others who do not speak out about this. I have to answer for speaking to you as my parishioners. The culture of death has taken a further step in our beloved country. We can only pray that this barbaric action will finally lead to an awakening toward life!

Next weekend, February 9-10, our parish will host a priest from Food for the Poor. I know you will make him feel most welcome!

And, Happy Valentine’s Day on the 14th! God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

January 27, 2019

+Dear Friends,

Here we are, more than half way through the month of January; can I have an “Amen?” Just keep telling yourself, “Spring is coming, spring is coming!”

At the time of St. Luke, those who read his Gospel account, took very seriously the call to discipleship and evangelization. The Church was in Her infancy and the followers of Christ, in the leadership of St. Peter and the other Apostles, knew that it was also up to them to spread the Eucharistic faith and truth of Jesus Christ.

St. Luke asserts: “you may realize the certainty of the teachings you have received.” There was no ambiguity, no dissenting opinion; they knew the truth of Jesus and many would give their lives for it! Some nowadays would discount the Gospel because of personal bias. It’s been that way from the beginning; one either accepts the truth or one rejects it. We each have free will. The sad thing today seems to be that some wish to wear the mantle of “Catholic” all the while undermining Catholic teaching because it fits a particular bias or agenda.

Well, that’s not what St. Luke believed, now is it? Remember his use of the word “certainty.” With Christ and His Bride, the Church, we have certainty of truth. Whether it be in the first century or the twenty-first century, truth is truth. As Pope Benedict XVI and now Pope Francis have noted numerous times, a “dictatorship of relativism” can never replace Gospel truth. One can call himself or herself a kangaroo, but that doesn’t make them one!

I call your early attention to the upcoming Parish Mission which will begin Sunday evening, February 24, and run through Wednesday, February 27! Mass will be offered that Monday and Tuesday at NOON with homily. Adoration will take place in the evening at 7:00 p.m. with a presentation by Fr. Wade, our missioner priest. On Wednesday, Mass will be at 7:00 p.m. with a conference by Fr. Wade, followed by a light reception. Confessions will be heard daily from 5:30-6:30 p.m., and following the Adoration Monday and Tuesday. NO confessions after Wednesday night Mass. Prayerfully consider this opportunity; especially as Lent approaches!

May the Good God, bless and keep us always in His way, truth and life! (“Stay warm and well-fed.” St. James).
Father Michael Fritsch

 

January 20, 2019

+Dear Friends,

“To each individual,” writes St. Paul, “the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit.” We might think that being given the Spirit means having all the answers, or for that matter, having no questions!

Holy Scripture provides little support for such supposition. All that the Holy Spirit gives us…and blessed are we if we can handle so much…is an awareness of, an openness to, Christ’s Presence and activity in our lives.

Let’s consider our Blessed Mother at Cana. She simply tells her Son what she sees: “They have no wine.” Are you thinking, “just like a mother?” Her implied petition is not given an immediate reply. Mary does not ask again or assume Jesus isn’t interested. Mary simply accepts that Her Son will answer her prayer/petition as is best for all.

Next comes one of the most powerful statements of New Testament faith and the faith of the Church: “Do whatever He tells you.” In that simple and deeply faithful directive, Our Lady undoes terrible words screamed at God by Lucifer: “I will not serve!”

Whatever Jesus decides will be for the best. He doesn’t need a script or teleprompter. Better we turn to Him trustingly, turn over the things we cannot handle alone. In the Holy Spirit, we invoke God’s power, not for our own good or selfish desires, but for the good of salvation. We pray always, “Thy will be done.” Can we honestly utter that statement of faith? To help us, we have Our Lady and her motherly advice: “Do whatever He tells you.” Mothers do know best you know!

***If you have made a pledge toward our building campaign and have not made a payment toward your pledge PLEASE DO SO!! The sooner we have half the monies deposited, the sooner we can begin! Thank you SO much! Danke!

May God bless you and keep you always! May Jesus in the Holy Eucharist, lead, guide and compassion you!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

January 13, 2019

+Dear Friends,

Today Holy Mother Church concludes the Christmas Season with the celebration of The Baptism of the Lord. Each week we gather in this sacred place to be nourished with the Eucharist of Jesus Christ. Isaiah the prophet beckons all who hunger and thirst to come to the Lord. This is precisely what has happened to each of us who have been baptized into Christ and His Church. In our hunger and thirst, we come to the Holy Mass. We come, not with any agendas or expectations, but with openness and surrender to worship the Father through the Sacrifice of Jesus!

As we celebrate the continued manifestation of Jesus to the world, we recognize the awesome potential for compassion that exists in the hearts of all who have been baptized into Christ and His Holy Church.

Isaiah also tells us that God’s chosen ones are those who follow this belief: “A bruised reed he shall not break, and a smoldering wick he shall not quench.” What’s that all about? Well, quite simply it means that Jesus, and by extension His Church, and you and I are called to encourage others to the compassion and truth that exists only in Jesus Christ. It means that the wounded are to be welcomed and brought the good news that healing and reconciliation are made manifest through Jesus and those who follow Him. It means that we are witnesses to this and are quite ready, willing and able to invite others into the fullness of Truth that is His Mystical Body on earth, the Church.

The celebration of Jesus’ baptism is an occasion for us to contemplate our own baptism and the responsibilities that came with it. Pray that we may be up to the challenge and the privilege!

Although called “Ordinary Time,” these few weeks between today’s Feast and Ash Wednesday, as well as throughout the summer months, are anything but ‘ordinary.’ How so? Well, the life of a Catholic and all Christians often means being ‘counter-cultural’ in our present days. This means, of course, that we may face opposition or even persecution for our Faith. Ergo, there really is no such thing as “Ordinary Time” for us! Let us ask the good God for His grace and mercy to fully live the life and Faith we profess!

May God’s blessings be upon you this week! Let us continue to pray for one another!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

December 23, 2018

+Dear Friends,

Advent is a time to live in joyful expectation at the coming of the Lord Jesus. We hear in today’s Mass that it is to the smallest and humblest that the Lord comes. Consider Mary, a simple Jewish girl living a seemingly insignificant life. It is in her womb that the very Son of God dwells.

Today we consider ourselves as well. Perhaps at times we consider ourselves too small or insignificant to count for much in God’s eyes. When we gather to celebrate Mass we are given the opportunity to become the very dwelling place of Jesus by listening to God’s Living Word and receiving the Body and Blood of Jesus in Holy Communion! In the womb of the Blessed Mother grew the One Who would save the world from sin and death. And within each one of us lies the potential to bring peace and goodwill to all we meet. Too insignificant? I don’t think so!

While we gather this weekend to celebrate the Fourth Sunday of Advent, this bulletin is also the final one before the glorious Solemnity of Christmas. Therefore….

A VERY BLESSED AND MERRY CHRISTMAS
TO ONE AND ALL!!

I pray that the celebration of Christ’s humble birth once again fills our hearts and lives with a spirit of simplicity and hope! I truly desire that everyone finds these days to be ones of peace!

When we assemble for Mass in the Season of Christmas, we are a Church haunted by a Child with many faces. Each of us brings to Mass the image of the Holy Child within. We proclaim the Child in Whom meets the ironies of life: divinity and humanity, birth and death, innocence and suffering.

God calls us at the time of Christmas, “My delight.” We are called to take these words to heart. We see, through the Gift of Jesus Christ, that even though we may feel desolate or abandoned at times, we can be assured that we ARE His delight! Our world waits for a day of lasting peace, freedom, protection and justice. All these were made visible in the form of a tiny Child born in a manger. His birth was the beginning of the promise. As a people who have been called to make a home for Christ within our hearts, we are called also to share that promise with our waiting world.

As the shepherds, may we be inspired to share the truth of Jesus with our families, friends, co-workers and with all who long for the life that only Jesus can give! In our own small ways, let us allow the light of Christ to shine in our hearts. Pray that we can show those who dwell in darkness (and that includes all of us at times) that there IS hope!

Due to bulletin deadlines, this bulletin is serving for BOTH this weekend and next. Therefore, please note the schedule of Masses for next weekend as well as the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, a Holy Day of Obligation, December 31 and January 1: December 31 Mass is at 5:00 p.m. and on January 1, at 10:30 a.m. Due to this odd combination of bulletins, I use this bulletin to also wish one and all A VERY HAPPY AND HEALTHY NEW YEAR, 2019!! Know of my every good wish for you and all the families of our parish as we celebrate Christ’s birth and the start of our new year of 2019. May it be one of hope, compassion and trust. I pray it is one of peace.

As Tiny Tim once said: “God Bless Us, Everyone!”
Father Michael Fritsch

 

December 16, 2018

+Dear Friends,

“The Lord, your God, is in your midst.” We hear those words on this Third Sunday of Advent; words that remind us to continue our joyful vigilance. This Third Sunday is called Gaudete Sunday. Its name comes from the Latin for “rejoice.” The rose vestments are worn, the rose candle of the Advent wreath is lit, all as reminders that the joy and miracle of the Incarnation of Christ at Christmas is near. Truly, as the Scriptures tell us this weekend, “Rejoice in the Lord always!”

These holy days leading up to Christmas are a time of preparation, of reflection and, as St. John the Baptist reminds us today, ones of sharing. They are days in which to give thanks and also to share with those less fortunate than ourselves. This is one way in which we make present the Lord in our midst. Whether or not it consists in taking a name from the giving tree, contributing to St. Vincent de Paul or some other random act of kindness and charity, sharing and giving to another makes our Lord ever more in our midst.

Our second reading today from St. Paul has been one of my favorites for many years. Quite honestly, while a favorite, it is also one of the most difficult to live. I can usually handle the “rejoice in the Lord” part; it is the “have no anxiety at all” part that I find difficult! I realize that almost everyone else finds this admonition to be very challenging as well. While we profess faith; while we do indeed have faith, still it is not always easy to “let go” and not fret about things, is it? I don’t believe I’ve ever read any writer put this forth but perhaps St. Paul wrote these words of encouragement because he himself knew what it was to live with anxiety. And, perhaps we live with this because of our fallen human nature. Until the fall of man, humanity knew no anxiety or fear. So, ever since that choice away from God, we live the struggle to believe without fear; with no reservations. I know that each of us has probably known people who live this way and we all admire them, don’t we? Their example can give us courage and strength too. What a perfect Advent prayer for us to offer!

I’ll be a tad early but I want to put this in bold, dark type so none of us forgets: Masses for Christmas are: Monday, December 24th at 4:00 p.m. and Tuesday, December 25th at Midnight and 10:30 a.m. Please pass along these Mass times to someone who may not be aware of the special holiday schedule!!

Better go for now. May the good God help us as we continue our Advent journey to Christmas! God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

December 9, 2018

+Dear Friends,

Echoing the call we heard last week, on this Second Sunday of Advent, St. Paul offers this prayer: that your love may increase ever more and more in knowledge to discern and follow what is of eternal value.

Advent, even in the midst of sometimes frantic activity, is a season of love. Yep, love. In the midst of our activities, Holy Mother Church offers us opportunities to “discern what is of value.” Celebrating a daily Mass, taking a gift tag from our annual Christmas Giving Tree, celebrating the Sacrament of Penance, taking part in our daily Liturgy of the Hours before daily Mass, making a visit to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, and the list goes on.

Very importantly, our ADVENT PENANCE SERVICE WILL BE HELD THIS COMING WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, AT 7:00 P.M. PLEASE FIND AN EXCELLENT ‘EXAMINATION OF CONSCIENCE’ IN TODAY’S BULLETIN! USE IT AND BRING IT WITH YOU ON WEDNESDAY…remember, five priests will be available!

In this time of preparation for the way of the Lord Jesus, the old prophet Baruch (there’s a name you don’t hear anymore!) reminds us that mercy and justice are our companions. As we extend the love of our Eucharistic Jesus more and more, we are called to bring that mercy and justice to those around us.

And so, ask yourself this weekend, “how do I recognize what is of real, true, eternal value, even when I get caught up in my preparations for Christmas?”

As the parish did last Advent, next weekend, we will take up a special second collection to remember and support the seminarians of the Archdiocese. This goes directly to the guys as a sign of support and prayer for their vocation and discernment. THE COLLECTION WILL BE TAKEN UP DECEMBER 15-16, in order to have it to them by the date of their annual Christmas gathering, which is December 17th this year. Let’s show them we care and pray for them all!

“Prepare the way of the Lord!” Come, let us do so! God bless you all!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

December 2, 2018

+Dear Friends,

Throughout the Christian world, believers join together this weekend to begin a new Church year; the Year of Grace 2019!

The Holy Season of Advent reconnects us to the waiting of our ancestors in the faith; all fulfilled in Christ’s humble birth. The Advent season proclaims the renewed vision of the prophets of old. Advent rekindles in us that sense of holy awe in watching and waiting to recognize once more Christ breaking into our daily lives!

Christ has come among us. Christ is among us. Christ will come again in glory to be adored by those who keep vigil in the darkness and cold of a culture of death at odds with Him.

From this First Sunday of Advent until December 16th, the focus of the season is on Christ’s glorious return at the end of time. It is filled with apocalyptic imagery and drama. From December 17th to 24th, the focus shifts more directly to the glorious celebration of Christmas. As we begin, let us truly Prepare the way of the Lord!

As your pastor, I pray that you all reflect on the opportunities of grace we have before us this Advent season. Celebrate Penance some time before Christmas. Stop by the church for a little extra prayer time with Our Lord in the Most Blessed Sacrament. Pray especially for vocations to the priesthood and religious vocations. Pray for peace in our families. Make the attempt to offer a Daily Mass now and again in this holy time of waiting and preparation.

The HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION of the IMMACULATE CONCEPTION OF MARY, is upon us! Mass will be offered on FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7TH AT 7:00 PM. This will be the ONLY Mass for the Holy Day. Saturday Mass will be the usual 5:00pm for the celebration of the Second Sunday of Advent.

At our Advent Penance Service on Wednesday, December 12th, come and relish in the gift of Christ’s welcome compassion and mercy for those of a truly contrite heart. We will have FIVE priests (including myself) with us to hear Confessions that evening. For your reflection, please find in next weekend’s bulletin a wonderful “Examination of Conscience” to be used in prayerfully preparing to make a good Confession! During this coming week, help “Prepare the way of the Lord!” Use those twinkling lights and cheery music to remind yourself of the “Reason for the season.”

“O, Come, O, Come, Emmanuel!” God Bless You All!
Father Michael Fritsch

 

March 20, 2016
Palm Sunday

+ Dear Friends,

January 25, 2015

+Dear Friends,

In today’s first reading we hear the story of the people of Nineveh, who repented of their sinful ways and offer a shining example of our Father’s divine mercy and forgiveness.

Our Lord Jesus calls us to repent and believe in the Gospel. It is noteworthy that our Lord’s call to follow Him is issued within the context of repentance. Sometimes, we don’t make the connection in our own lives. Following Jesus entails conversion and repentance; it must always do so in order to be authentic and graced.

When we forget this connection, we are actually attempting to follow Jesus on our terms, not His. It’s as if we say to the Lord, “I will follow You, Lord, BUT allow me to bring this old habit, sin or attitude along with me.”

Well, sooner or later we learn that we can’t have it OUR way. We need to always remember, we are members of the ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH. Therefore, there are many aspects of our faith life that are simply bigger than we are! We are not St. Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church alone….we belong to the Church Universal as well as the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. We are not a community that can “pick and choose” what we believe or profess or do. Our freedom and unity are ours precisely because we belong to the Church! Sometimes it takes a bit of hardship or “skinned knees” for us to learn this but, God willing, we do learn! How good and gracious is our Father!

Want a note of good cheer? Spring is less than two months away! That should lift our spirits! God bless you all!

 

January 18, 2015

+Dear Friends,

“Here am I, Lord; I come to do Your will.” This refrain from today’s responsorial psalm is a beautiful prayer for all believers as this brief bit of Ordinary Time opens before us.

Today, as baptized and practicing Catholics, how fitting that we hear the call of the prophet Samuel, who is told by Eli to respond to the Lord’s call with the words: “Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening.” We also hear today the Lord Jesus call the Apostles to follow Him. It’s as if the Liturgy of the Word is speaking directly to us…and, you know what? It is!

In the same manner, through His holy word, the Lord Jesus calls each and every one of us into service for the sake of His Kingdom. As we often hear, whether or not that is as dedicated, faithful married folk, a chaste single life, or as priests or religious, each one of us has been called by Christ!

There is an age-old axiom in the Church universal: “how we pray shows how we believe,” and it rings as true today as it ever has. I truly believe that more and more Catholics throughout the world are coming to a deeper and clearer understanding of both What and Who the Mass is! The more we believe that, as a recent convert to the Catholic Faith put it so very well, “when we enter the doors of the church, it becomes all about HIM; not me; not about my desires, likes or dislikes,” then we are grasping the true meaning of the Mass. Remember, we are all still learning!

May our Lord’s richest blessings and grace be upon us!

 

January 11, 2015

+Dear Friends,

Today Holy Mother Church concludes the Christmas Season with the celebration of The Baptism of the Lord. How fitting it is that the refrain for the responsorial psalm is “You will draw water joyfully from the springs of salvation.”

Each week we gather in this sacred place to be nourished with the Eucharist of Jesus Christ. Isaiah the prophet beckons all who hunger and thirst to come to the Lord. This is precisely what has happened to each of us who have been baptized into Christ and His Church. In our hunger and thirst, we come to the Holy Mass. We come, not with any agendas or expectations, but with openness and surrender to worship the Father through the Sacrifice of Jesus!

As we celebrate the continued manifestation of Jesus to the world, we recognize the awesome potential for compassion that exists in the hearts of all who have been baptized into Christ and His Holy Church.

Isaiah also tells us that God’s chosen ones are those who follow this belief: “A bruised reed he shall not break, and a smoldering wick he shall not quench.” What’s that all about? Well, quite simply it means that Jesus, and by extension His Church, and you and I are called to encourage others to the compassion and truth that exists only in Jesus Christ. It means that the wounded are to be welcomed and brought the good news that healing and reconciliation are made manifest through Jesus and those who follow Him. It means that we are witnesses to this and are quite ready, willing and able to invite others into the fullness of Truth that is His Mystical Body on earth, the Church.

The celebration of Jesus’ baptism is an occasion for us to contemplate our own baptism and the responsibilities that came with it. Pray, that we may be up to the challenge and the privilege!

*** I now have an important announcement: due to the severe outbreak of both viral as well as bacterial flu in Indiana, and at the urging of several in the parish, I am making the pastoral decision to suspend the use of the Chalices until Holy Thursday. This is a VERY important opportunity for us all to contemplate and remember the teaching of the Church that when one receives the Sacred Host, one is receiving the TOTALITY of Jesus Christ! In other words, the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of our Lord. The same holds when one may choose to receive only from the Chalice; one is receiving the totality of Jesus Christ. I have made this decision with prayer and I feel the best interest of our parishioners. On a separate note: IF you are suffering from a severe cold, coughing, sneezing, etc. PLEASE offer a simple nod of the head and a “Peace be with you” at the Sign of Peace. We need to take care of one another this winter! I thank you all for your understanding and cooperation. Dennis will be contacting the Extra-Ordinary Ministers concerning fulfilling this change in the schedule of EMs assigned for each Mass.

May God’s blessings be upon you this week! Let us continue to pray for one another!

 

January 5, 2015

+Dear Friends,

The holy Christmas Season continues! On this first weekend of the new year, we celebrate the wonderful Solemnity of the Epiphany! It is a celebration of the manifestation of Christ Jesus as the true Light of the World; the Savior of Jew and Gentile alike!

It is an ancient tradition in Catholic households to ask God’s blessing upon the family home on today’s Solemnity. Printed below you will find the blessing prayer to be offered by the family gathered inside the front door. Afterwards, using chalk, the following is inscribed over the door:

20+C+M+B 15

Of course, the initials represent the names of the three Magi, or Kings, Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar. As the Magi represent the entirety of humanity coming to and proclaiming Jesus as the Christ, the Messiah of all peoples, may we, too, proclaim Him in our lives and actions! We, too, are called to bring others to the truth and life that is Jesus Christ. What we have been given, we freely invite and share. May the holy Magi pray for us!

It is also a liturgical tradition that the Epiphany Proclamation is read. I reprint here for your reflection:

“The glory of the Lord has shone upon us and shall ever manifest itself among us until the day of His return. Through the rhythms and changes of time, let us call to mind and live the mysteries of salvation.

The center of the whole liturgical year is the Paschal Triduum of the Lord, crucified, buried and risen, which will culminate in the solemn Vigil of Easter, during the holy night that will end with the dawn of the 5^th of April.

From Easter, there comes forth and are reckoned all the days we keep holy: Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the Lenten Season, the 18^th of February; the Ascension of the Lord, the 17^th of May and Pentecost, the 24^th of May; the First Sunday of Advent, the 29^th of November.

To Christ Who was, Who is, and Who is to come, the Lord of time and history, be endless praise forever and ever. AMEN!”

 

December 28, 2014

 +Dear Friends,

As we continue to bask in the Octave days of Christmas, Holy Mother Church calls us together to observe the Feast of the Holy Family.

Two holy elderly couples are presented to us in today’s Mass. Abram and Sarah, and Simeon and Anna. The common thread that weaves through each of these people’s lives is that they longed for something. Who among us has not experienced this same feeling and desire?

For Abram and Sarah, it was for a child. For Simeon and Anna, it was to behold the Messiah before they died. Perhaps the message of these holy people is that for a people of faith, often what we greatly desire comes only after a very long wait. We can draw inspiration from the great faith and patience shown us by Abram, Sarah, Simeon and Anna!

Today, we also reflect upon the upcoming Holy Day of Obligation of the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God. (Please note the Mass times!)

As the new year prepares to dawn, we gather to place ourselves and our world under the protective mantle of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God! She is the Queen of Peace, to whom we can pray for an end to violence and all threats against the dignity and protection of human life; from conception to natural death. She is the Mother of Sorrows, who joins her heart and voice to ours as we bring to God our prayers and needs. She is Theotokas, the God-Bearer, through whose intercession we raise our prayers to the Lord Jesus, Who reigns in eternal glory! Mary is the Mother of the Church and our Mother. Who better to turn to in prayer than the Mother of Christ Himself? Bishop Sheen once said, “How can we fail to love and honor her, whom her Son so loved?” Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!

My humble thanks for your kind remembrances at Christmas! I wish you all a very Happy New Year 2015! May this coming year be a time of good health of mind and body for all of us, our families, and our friends!

 

December 21, 2014

+Dear Friends,

On this Fourth Sunday of Advent, we hear of God’s promise of salvation. The Archangel Gabriel announces to Mary that a child will be born Who is to be called “the Son of the Most High.”

Advent is all about sacred promises. As soon as we open our hearts to listen to God’s voice, the promises continue to unfold in our lives as we await the joy of the Christmas Season!

While we gather this weekend to observe the Fourth Sunday of Advent, this bulletin also is the final issue before the glorious Solemnity of Christmas. Therefore….

A VERY BLESSED AND MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE!!

May the holy celebration of Christ’s humble birth once more fill your hearts and lives with a spirit of simplicity and hope! I pray that each and every one of us truly finds these days to be ones of peace!

Our Advent longing is now fulfilled! When our world is in deepest darkness of the longest nights and shortest days, we dare to revel in feasts of holy Light!

While the powers of darkness threaten, we gather to celebrate Emmanuel…God with us! May our joyous celebration of Christmas fill us with renewed hope, resolve and trust! Emmanuel has come. We celebrate His Presence among us! Our Tabernacle truly is the manger of Bethlehem. Just as the holy manger bore the sacred Presence of Christ on Christmas day, His Sacred Presence remains among us, inviting and awaiting our coming to Him. Come, let us adore Him!

Please note in today’s bulletin the schedule for Masses during this holy time.

Mom was released from the hospital and is resting at home. Please continue to keep her in your prayers.

Again, know of my sincere and every good wish for you and all the families of our wonderful parish as we celebrate Christ’s birth! God bless you all!!

FROLICHE WEIHNACHTEN!!

 

December 14, 2014

+ Dear Friends,

Here we are on the Third Sunday of Advent, traditionally called Gaudete Sunday. This comes from the Latin for “rejoice.” The wonderful rose candle is lit and the rose vestments are worn to rejoice that Christmas draws near. As you gaze around the church, you can clearly see that the glorious Feast draws ever near…even the building is getting ready!

The image of the reign of God proclaimed today by the prophet Isaiah is comforting and challenging at the same time. We are called to take these words to heart and put them into practice in our daily lives. As this Advent continues to unfold before us, our gaze is turned once again to St. John the Baptist, who prepares the way of the Lord.

Let us pray that we will be inspired by today’s Mass to become a Christ-like presence for others…bringing glad tidings and kindness to the brokenhearted. As we go forth on this Gaudete Sunday, let our continued prayer resound:

“Come, Lord Jesus!”

A sincere thank-you to everyone who is praying for Mom’s health, strength and recovery. We are hopeful she will be home before Christmas. 
I deeply appreciate your words of support, comfort and solidarity.

Also, a note of ‘thanks’ to everyone who contributed to our collection for our seminarians at Christmas! We raised $2600.00 which means they received $100.00 each.
On their behalf, “thank-you!”

May God continue to bless us one and all as we continue our Advent journey toward Christmas!

 

December 7, 2014

+Dear Friends,

We gather on this Second Sunday of Advent. St. John the Baptist’s cry reaches out to us: “Prepare the way of the Lord!” In 2014, just how do we recognize and prepare “the way of the Lord?”

Isaiah, once again, gives us a glimpse of this way. After hearing this reading proclaimed at Mass today, allow the richness of its imagery to transport you to God’s holy comfort where we glimpse the way of the Lord.

In a world torn by war, terrorism and religious persecution, we must express our sadness that the way of the Lord seems so far away. Injustice, tyranny, terror, greed, don’t just float “out there,” waiting for someone to help alleviate them. Advent calls us to reflect upon how well WE help to bring about the way of the Lord in our midst. Let today’s Mass inspire us to recognize the many ways in which we, in our daily lives, can make the Lord ever more present to others! Come, Emmanuel!

On December 8, 1854, Blessed Pope Pius IX, solemnly defined the Dogmatic teaching of the IMMACULATE CONCEPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY. Long held as a central tenet of the Deposit of Faith, the Holy Father formally defined and declared that the Blessed Virgin Mary was conceived without Original Sin in virtue of her exalted place in all time and creation as the Mother of God, Jesus Christ. As the tabernacle of the Most High God, Mary contained the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! Thus, she was preserved from all stain of Original Sin. This week, the HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION, will be celebrated. Mass will be offered at 7:00pm on December 7th and at 8:30am on December 8th. Come, let us celebrate in joy the Blessed Virgin Mary and Emmanuel her Son!

Also coming soon, on Wednesday, December 10th at 7:00pm, our parish will gather for our ADVENT PENANCE SERVICE. We will be blessed to have four of my brother priests with us: Fathers Danny Bedel, Joe Feltz, Tim Wyciskalla and Minh Duong.

It’s a perfect way for all of us to “prepare the way of the Lord!” May God bless you all!

“O, Come, O, Come, Emmanuel!”

 

November 30, 2014

+Dear Friends,

Welcome to Advent! The new year of liturgical grace, 2015, has begun! The first words spoken by our Lord Jesus in today’s Gospel set the tone for this holy season of expectant longing: “Be watchful! Be alert!”

We stand ready at the beginning of this holy Advent season, for we do not know when Jesus will return in glory. We open our hearts to Scriptures and reflections that call us to be mindful of the ways of the Lord.

If our faith lives have become “withered like leaves,” as Isaiah laments, let God’s word instill new life in all of us! Let that word penetrate our hearts and fill us with life and joy. One of the beautiful aspects of Advent is the prospect of yet another “new beginning.”

Advent offers us the opportunity to prayerfully reflect on how we are doing when it comes to living, celebrating and praying our Catholic Faith. Whether or not it is taking the time to come and celebrate the Sacrament of Penance, attending a daily Mass when one can, remembering the Holy Day of Obligation of the Immaculate Conception or taking part in our Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Advent is the time to begin anew. As we reflect on the message of today’s Mass, let this be our prayer: “Come, Lord Jesus!”

And, speaking of reflection, please take a copy of The Magnificat’s Advent Reflections to use during this holy season. It is an excellent resource for Advent reflection and prayer!

Because I am new to our parish, you all are unaware of a tradition I have done each Advent Season. Each year, I ask that a second collection be taken up to go toward a Christmas gift for each of our seminarians. This goes directly to the guys as a personal “thank-you” and sign of our prayers from our parish. I have often shared with the parishes later just how truly grateful our seminarians are for the support and prayers offered them by our parish. Next weekend, we will take up this annual second collection for the seminarians’ Christmas gifts. This is a gift given personally to each of our 26 seminarians at Christmas to show our continued support and encouragement as they prepare to become our future priests! Let us be generous to them again this year!

As the holy time approaches, if you know of a parishioner who is homebound or in a facility near-by and they would like for me to stop by to Anoint them before Christmas, or go to Confession, just let Anna or myself know! I will certainly make it happen!

May our Advent Season be one of prayerful, expectant prayer, repentance and joy!

 

November 23, 2014

+Dear Friends,

The readings for the entire liturgical year of 2014 led us to today’s celebration of the Solemnity of Christ the King and today’s Gospel from St. Matthew.

On this final Sunday before the holy time of Advent begins, the Lord Jesus tells us just how our activity will be judged when we finally “meet our Maker” face to face. The text is nothing short of chilling, for there is no escaping its central questions.

We are each asked to examine how we have or have not fed the hungry, given or not given drink to the thirsty, welcomed or shunned the stranger, clothed or ignored the naked and visited or turned away from the imprisoned.

The Holy Spirit is our strength and our guide as we are formed into disciples. At the close of this liturgical year, let us turn to the Holy Spirit, seeking His help to respond to what our Lord Jesus commands of us in today’s Gospel!

Of course, it goes without saying that one can interpret our Lord’s commands in a spiritual sense also. When it comes to spirituality and knowledge of Christ Jesus, His Church and most especially His Presence in the Holy Eucharist, there are many “hungry, thirsty, naked and imprisoned” people. Perhaps even more so, aiding in another’s eternal salvation is of utmost charity and kindness.

Let us think back to one year ago today, November 23, 2013. In what ways in the past year have I fed the hungry, given drink to the thirsty, welcomed the stranger, clothed the naked and visited the imprisoned?

Please note in today’s bulletin, the Mass for Thanksgiving will be celebrated this coming Wednesday evening at 7:00pm. Come, let us offer the true “thanksgiving”….the Holy Eucharist! Hope to see you at Holy Mass for Thanksgiving Eve!

If you have not completed your pledge card for this year’s United Catholic Appeal, please do so by the end of the month. Again, THANK YOU FOR YOUR COMMITMENT & GENEROSITY TO OUR PARISH AND ARCHDIOCESE!

To one and all, a very safe and HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!