Brothers and Sisters,

“Save us, Savior of the world, for by your Cross and Resurrection, you have set us free.” This powerful acclamation of our faith serves as a constant reminder to trust in Jesus. Jesus, who entered our world and made a profound impact, bringing forgiveness, reconciliation, healing, and restoration. The grace of God continues to work in our world and our lives, drawing us closer to union with God and bringing peace to one another and all of creation. This faith and freedom are not just abstract concepts but the very essence of our existence, inspiring us to live as God’s children and share the merciful and healing grace of Jesus with others.

As believers, we observe two important celebrations of our freedom: Juneteenth and Independence Day. Juneteenth, a relatively new addition to our collective awareness, commemorates June 19, 1865. It’s surprising how long it took for the news to spread in an era of instant communication. While Lincoln freed enslaved people in the Confederate states by the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, it wasn’t until two years later that slavery was abolished in the last slave territory and the 13th Amendment was ratified. Sadly, slavery still exists in our modern world and persists even in the free United States of America in many forms, with human trafficking being the
most common.

As we prepare for sparklers and fireworks, celebrating July 4th with family and friends, let us remember the need to keep our eyes focused on Christ. He is the only one who can truly grant us freedom. Freedom is a beautiful gift, offering us the opportunity to live as God’s children. Still, it also comes with the responsibility to share the merciful and healing grace of Jesus with others. Let us ask the Lord to aid our efforts to spread the word that all people are created free, with inalienable rights from our God.

Our parish’s feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help is celebrated on Thursday, June 27; I am grateful for the many ways God’s grace flows through our parish, thanks to the dedication and service of our community members and staff. We are truly blessed with intentional disciples and vibrant ministries. As the school leadership transitions, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to our principal, Tracy Underwood, for her three years of service and emphasis on finding joy in our relationship with the Lord and building up our community. I also thank “Saint” B (Miss B, or Liz Brasauskas), Sandy McHugh, Joan Brooks, and Mary Gregorini, who have dedicated many years to serving our school and our Youth Minister, Mary Saarinen. Their impact is immeasurable, whether with us throughout their lives or for just a short year. As we embrace these changes, may the Lord continue to bless all our efforts to strengthen our parish community as the Body of Christ.