Weekly Letter from the Pastor

Dear Fellow Parishioners of Saint Benedict:

October is always a very busy month. As the fall season gets underway, we begin to think of apple picking and carving jack-o-lanterns. While all of these annual rituals are important, there is also always the liturgical cycle and the life of the church that calls for our attention. To that end, allow me a few basic points on events happening around us.

October is traditionally the Month of the Holy Rosary. This important meditative prayer draws our focus on salvation history, the Mysteries of Paschal Events, and the life and ministry of Jesus. To that end, we are inviting all parishioners to remain at the end of Mass this weekend for the recitation of one decade of the Holy Rosary. I would also encourage everyone to pray at least one Rosary this month – perhaps even as a family – for the conversion of sinners and the fruitful benefits of the new evangelization.

In the US October is also observed as Pro-Life Month. Here we focus on working towards a respect for life from conception to natural death. As we contemplate voting for state offices in the next few weeks, life issues should be primary in our thinking. Unfortunately, neither gubernatorial candidates of the major parties (though both practicing Catholics) hold to the pro-life position. We pray for them, of course, and also for the wisdom to vote for the best candidate for office. The generosity of parishioners to Birthright is also worth noting. I would encourage you to think of making a special effort this month to consider making a donation to that cause. Praying for the protection of all human life should also be a part of our daily prayer.

On November 4 we will observe our bi-annual diocesan pilgrimage to the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. Father JM will be leading the parish delegation which already has a nice contingent going for the day. It is a very moving experience and I encourage you to consider attending. Matt Santucci has a number of our youth group already signed-up as well. We are traveling together with the cohort, so that the parish is not singularly responsible for the bus. Check the bulletin for more details and direct any questions accordingly.

On Sunday November 5 we will have the formal blessing and dedication of the new Science Lab in the school. Specific details will follow in future bulletins.

We have been enjoying some beautiful autumnal weather (and some summer-like days as well.) Many students are benefitting from a three (or four) day weekend, so we hope that everyone is safe and enjoys the holiday.

Blessings and best wishes,
Fr. Garry Koch