News - June 2018 RSS Feed

This weekend we celebrate the Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist. There are only three birthdays celebrated by the Church in the Liturgical calendar: John the Baptist (June 24th); Mary (September 8th) and Jesus (December 25th). These three, integral to the plan of salvation, were each born without Original Sin. It is for that reason that we celebrate their births as liturgical solemnities. The Nativity of St. John the Baptist is so important to the life of the church that, as with this weekend, it supersedes the Sunday of Ordinary Time. Read more.

In response to certain challenges that have been before the Supreme Court to the integrity of the religious freedom as secured by the First Amendment to the US Constitution, the USCCB inaugurated the Fortnight for Religious Freedom several years ago, now called Religious Freedom Week. While some are hopeful that a recent Supreme Court decision a few weeks ago securing the rights of a Colorado baker would bring some resolution to these challenges, that case does not establish any precedent. I encourage all of you to be alert to various challenges to our freedoms – not only our religious freedom, but our basic rights to privacy, freedom of speech, and freedom to exercise our conscience. The national dialogue on these matters – indeed the international dialogue as well – is at times very disconcerting. We need to be vigilant, intercede with our congressional representatives and state legislators, and persevere in prayer. When we vote for state and federal officials, we need to be mindful of the whole package and work towards the clarification of our rights and freedoms. The national prayer is observed from June 22nd – 29th. Read more.

First off, Father Michael DeSaye was humbled and honored by the presence of so many at his First Mass here last Sunday, and he is grateful for the prayers, support, and generosity of so many of you. It was an honor to have him here and I hope to have him back before he begins his ministry at St. Joan of Arc, Marlton. Read more.

This weekend at the 9:30 a.m. Mass we welcome newly ordained Father Michael DeSaye as he celebrates his First Mass with us, along with his family (parents Greg and Debbie; brother Christopher; sister Marie and her husband, Doug; and sister Kathleen) and friends. We are honored and blessed to have them with us for this great celebration. Please join us for a light reception and First Blessings after the 9:30 a.m. Mass. Father DeSaye has been assigned as parochial vicar at St. Joan of Arc in Marlton. Read more.