Fr. Mike's Communication for Sept 5, 2021

September 5, 2021

“Thus says the Lord:
Say to those whose hearts are frightened:
Be strong, fear not!”

— Isaiah 34:4a

Brothers & Sisters,

Rarely does telling someone, “Be not afraid,” actually work. Trust is crucial to calm fears or anxieties.

This past week on the first day of school, most students eagerly approached their classrooms, at a minimum, because they would once again see their friends. While most of us appreciate the change of pace of summer break, we find ourselves grateful to get back into familiar routines.

Yet, for a few of our younger students, fear absolutely cripples them. They cling to their parents as they try to drop them off. The unfamiliarity with their teachers, classmates, and school building certainly contributes. To minimize these anxieties, schools usually host an open house for younger and new students. So, along with their parents, they can visit their classroom, meet their teacher, and meet new friends from the class.

The prophet Isaiah points to reasons why the people should not be frightened. Despite the difficulties and challenges in life, Isaiah describes God’s many miracles, including restoring sight to the blind and hearing to the deaf. God cares for all his people.

If we open our eyes to the presence of the Lord and actively listen to his voice, God proves his trustworthiness. In the face of fears that cripple us, even us adults, God is always the answer. While confidence in God won’t eliminate all fear (I’m still afraid of heights), trust in God helps remove the obstacles for us to BELONG so we can participate in community gatherings and organizations, in ongoing studies, and the acts of charity and service.

Join me this week; let us lift in prayers all those crippled by the devastation, hurt and loss around them. Including our brothers and sisters in Afghanistan and our US Troops, as well as those who have experienced recent natural disasters, may we thank God for those voices who reassure us and strengthen our trust in God.

Some considerations:

We are hopeful to offer Cross-Country to all OLPH Students and Parish members in grades 5-8. Before we can open registration it is helpful to know the level of interest and secure a Head Volunteer/Coach to coordinate practices. If your child is interested in Cross Country and/or you would like to volunteer, please email egkuczynski@hotmail.com.
Individual Unbound Ministry Prayer -Many of us are fighting invisible battles with anxieties, negative thoughts, sins, unhealthy relationships, destructive habits, resentments, and bitter wounds that never seem to heal. You can reach out and experience God’s merciful love, healing, and freedom! Unbound Ministry releases the power of Jesus into wounded lives. On Saturday, September 18th there will be trained teams available to provide individual prayer using the Unbound Model of prayer at The Church of the Resurrection’s School in Ellicott City. EMAIL unboundministrymaryland@gmail.com for more information or to set up an appointment.
The Frederick County Right to Life is hosting its 12th Annual Banquet on Friday, September 24, at Dutch’s Daughter (581 Himes Avenue, Frederick). Sr. Dede, a pro-Life Nun, a Doctor, and retired Army Colonel with speaking on “Preparing to Win the Battle.” The evening begins with appetizers and a cash bar at 6 pm, with dinner at 7 pm. The cost is $65 per person ($50 for students). For more info or to reserve seats online by September 16th; check out the website FrederickCountyRighttoLife.org. You may also, call Virginia Grant (required after September 16th ) at (301)695-2811.

St. Joseph, pray for us.
Live Jesus in our hearts, forever.

Rev. Michael S. Triplett