Pentecost XXIV

The Bishop’s Note
Blessed Sunday of All Saints to one and all! The Octave of the feast is one of great joy. The saints always had joy and they always give joy, too. Whose heart is not filled with joy at contemplating so many holy men and women who were on earth so similar to you and me as far as weak human nature goes, now reigning gloriously in heaven? Honor each saint today; not just the ones who are honored publicly throughout the year by the Church, but the ones nobody knows about, the ones who barely made it, the ones who converted on their deathbeds, and perhaps even some of your own family members. They are pulling for us by their prayers. Never forget it—souls in heaven, sitting before the throne of God, remember us in their prayers!

This Wednesday the school will be making a visit to St. Stephen’s Cemetery, where Bishop Dolan and Fr. Cekada are buried, for its annual cemetery Rosary procession. I hope you will join us.

Fr. McKenna’s anniversary of his permanent return to St. Gertrude’s was on October 31st. I think he said it was either 12 or 13 years now that he has been with us. I like to tease him about the fact that he came to us on Halloween, and how very fitting it is. In reality, however, I am so very thankful to God for bringing Father to us. He is a good friend who brings good cheer on those busy days. Even more importantly, he is a fine missionary priest. Father is in Milwaukee now, but comes back sometime this week.

Elections are this week. While your vote might not count (or might not be counted) your prayers always do. Before or after voting (and even if you do not vote), make it a point to come to church for a Mass or just a visit to the Blessed Sacrament to pray for our country.

Our true country is in heaven, and this is something we ought never forget. This world is just a place of exile. Soon enough, each of us will depart it. Do not lose track of this truth!

– Bishop McGuire