Brothers and Sisters,

Today we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, the namesake and patroness of our parish. This special day reminds us how deeply our community is connected to Mary’s perpetual care and intercession. Let us ask the Lord, through Our Lady, to pour out abundant graces upon OLPH Parish and all our parishioners.

The Scriptures this weekend invite us to trust in God’s faithfulness even in the midst of loss and longing. The story of the woman in Shunem, who shows kindness to the prophet Elisha and receives the gift of a child, resonates with the deep desires and heartaches many of us carry. Even when tragedy strikes and her son dies, her persistent faith leads to his restoration. Her story is a powerful witness to clinging to hope and trusting that God remains present, even in our darkest moments.

This theme of trusting God in loss is echoed throughout the Scriptures. St. Paul reminds us that through baptism, we are united to Christ’s death and resurrection, which is our hope even in times of mourning or uncertainty. At funerals, the symbols of our faith — the Paschal Candle, white pall, and holy water — remind us that God’s promise endures beyond death. The Gospel challenges us to let go of our own plans and ambitions, to empty ourselves and trust in God’s greater reward. God’s faithfulness is the anchor that holds us steady.

Canon law places great responsibility on pastors, emphasizing service over authority. Pastors are called to keep the Eucharist at the center of parish life and proclaim the fullness of God’s Word. They must ensure that Mass is offered on Sundays and holy days, pray for their people, and foster the sacramental life of the parish. This includes providing instruction to all, especially children, and getting to know parishioners personally. Pastoral care extends to visiting the sick and dying, offering Viaticum, and nurturing vocations by walking with parishioners as they discern God’s call. These responsibilities form the heart of parish ministry.

As I reflect on my ministry at OLPH, I know there are ways I could have better “died to self” and ensured my responsibility was first and foremost. I have been blessed to get to know you and your families. I have celebrated many Masses and encouraged ongoing worship and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. I have baptized quite a few and received some of you into the Church. I have been present for funerals and the trials and sufferings you face. Together we faced the many challenges of the pandemic. I’ll admit, I definitely did things wrong at times, but I was striving to keep the life of the Church. I remember fondly (though I’m hopeful to never return to this necessity) the outdoor Mass — luckily not too much rain, but definitely cold and heat — and the car lines for outdoor confessions. As I prepare to care for a new community, I am reminded of the ongoing need to “die to self,” letting go of the emphasis on pleasure or comfort for the true witness of the Gospel. Please know that my prayers and affection will remain with Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, and I appreciate the prayers and support I have received.

This Saturday, join us for a special 9 am Mass as we celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America. We have been blessed with many graces, and this is an opportunity to recommit ourselves to building God’s kingdom and fostering a culture that lives the Gospel. May your celebrations with family, friends, and neighbors be filled with joy.