Building Bright Futures

As we mentioned in last week’s bulletin, we are still working on raising funds for our campaign, even with the recently announced donation from Miss Temme.  There remains several “unknowns” as we move forward that may affect the final costs.  As the plans are finalized, we are facing several “code” issues to be addressed.  We may have to install a sprinkler system in the Gabriel House, adding a couple hundred-thousand dollars to the project.  Additional restrooms may be required as defined by “the code”.  Fresh-air intakes as well as completely new HVAC units are adding to the costs.  We are currently working with several engineers as we address concerns and meet the building code expectations.  Ideally, much will be determined over the next couple weeks.  I’m grateful to the help of the Construction Manager helping us address these issues and the attention to detail shown by the parish committee, all while holding the line on the budget. 

Travels

I am currently on a vacation in Germany for the next couple of weeks.  A friend recently married a man from Germany and while over there, they invited me to join them as they prepare to relocate permanently to the United States. Be assured of my prayers for you in the many churches I’ll visit during my travels.  I’ve been accused of following the 3 C’s tour:  Churches, Castles and Cafés. 

Thanksgiving

So many elements of Thanksgiving Day are around customs familiar to families.  White-bread or Corn-bread stuffing.  Jellied Cranberry or Cranberry relish.  Turkey cut and plated or cut at the table.  Pumpkin or Apple pie…or maybe even Mincemeat!  At our celebration, the men always did the dishes…or at least the 20 and 30 year old’s.  The older generation got to relax.

In all the customs, please don’t loose sight of the purpose of Thanksgiving Day: To Give Thanks to God for His Blessings.  If you are not overwhelmed in the kitchen with the duties of hospitality, bring the family to Mass on Thanksgiving Morning.  Or maybe the parent not responsible for the cooking could bring the family to church giving the cook a quiet pause at home.  Remember the Lord in all the activity for He is the source of our blessings and the focus of our praise.  Let us give the Lord thanks for the blessings bestowed on us and our country.

Mass on Thanksgiving Day (November 27) will be at 8:00 am at St. Raphael’s and at 9:00 am at St. Gabriel’s.