Message from Fr. Mike
Dear Friends,
Welcome to this day of grace and joy. Truly, this is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it!
Our parish began its journey toward this 75th anniversary celebration in September 2024. Over the past year, it has been as though we have walked together on a year-long spiritual retreat. We deepened our faith through reflection on the meaning of our faith, celebrated a special St. Nicholas celebration in December with our children, were enriched by a Parish Mission preached by Fr. Richard Benson, and prayed fervently in “Seven Days of Holy Hours.” Most recently, on August 16, the parish family gathered in joy and fellowship at our annual picnic. Each of these moments has prepared us for today’s solemn celebration.
While our theme is “The Faith We Inherited,” this anniversary embraces more than remembrance. It is a celebration of the present, a commitment to the future, and a renewal of faith, hope, and love that will carry us forward.
Seventy-five years ago, the founding parishioners and their Pastor left a legacy of faith and buildings to the community. Each generation continues to build on what was entrusted to us. This generation has faced its challenges through a successful capital campaign and the renovation of Msgr. Crean Hall. The community has once again shown its strong commitment to the parish’s mission and willingness to sacrifice for the future. These accomplishments are not just physical improvements; they are clear signs of our lasting faith in God and dedication to each other.
Equally important, our parish continues to live its mission of charity. We do not exist for ourselves alone. When the Eaton Canyon fire displaced many families, Assumption opened its doors as a refuge for the victims and welcomed students affected by the fire. These actions reflect our mission statement, “to help those in need,” and serve as a testament to the Christian call to serve. They remind us that our faith is alive whenever it is expressed in love.
This 75th anniversary is, above all, a celebration of the people of Assumption—their faith, sacrifices, and determination to pass on the Gospel. In every generation, parishioners have faced the challenges of their time with generosity and love. Today, we sincerely thank the many who continue to give of themselves for the good of this community. Many worked so hard to ensure that this celebration was successful and meaningful. However, one man’s sacrifice, dedication, and commitment cannot go unnoticed: Mr. Guido Galli. As chair of our 75th Anniversary Celebration, he gave it all he had. His leadership, patience, and sacrifices serve as a shining example of devotion.
Although we could not finish renovating Msgr. Crean Hall before our celebration, the project is on schedule. We thank everyone who contributed to our Call to Renew Capital campaign.
Looking ahead, our parish stays true to the vision of our founding pastor, Msgr. Crean. Our mission remains the same: to offer a spiritual home for everyone, generously meet the needs of our community, renovate our buildings for future generations, and, most importantly, keep alive the faith entrusted to us. Founded in Christ Jesus, we move forward with confidence, firm in our faith, and dedicated to becoming even more faithful followers of the Lord.
Fr. Michael Ume
Pastor
