Dear ABVM Parish Community,
It brings me great joy to reconnect with you after my enriching pilgrimage to Italy, where I had the opportunity to deepen my faith and explore the beautiful landscapes and churches of the region. Shortly after that transformative experience, I returned home unexpectedly to honor my uncle during his funeral. These recent events have been profoundly impactful, offering challenges and blessings that I will carry. I’m grateful to be with you again.
As I reflect on gratitude, I am reminded of something that St. Ambrose, the Archbishop of Milan, once said,
“No duty is more urgent than that of returning thanks.”
This profound truth resonates deeply with us as Catholics. We profess and celebrate it in every Mass when the priest prays on our behalf:
“It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere, to give you thanks” (Preface).
Indeed, it is both our duty and obligation to give thanks to our almighty and eternal God. We fulfill this sacred duty in every Mass we celebrate.
Yet, why do we sometimes struggle to fulfill this obligation? The reasons may vary, but perhaps our difficulty lies in not being able to fully recognize or articulate what God has done—and continues to do—in our lives. A creative solution suggested by one of our parishioners may help us: the ABVM Gratitude Tree.
The Gratitude Tree, located near the Baptismal font, serves as a tangible way to express our gratitude to God. Currently bare, it will bloom with “leaves” of thanksgiving as we approach the season of gratitude. Each leaf will represent a reason we are thankful to God. As Thanksgiving Day (November 28) approaches, I invite you to participate. Simply take a green leaf from the table next to the tree, write down what you are grateful for, and attach it to the tree. If you later wish to revise or add to your reason, you can do so anytime. This practice helps us reflect more deeply on the many blessings we’ve received and prepares our hearts to truly give thanks at the Thanksgiving Mass.
GRATEFUL FOR OUR VOLUNTEERS
Jesus teaches us that the love of God and neighbor is the path to heaven. As we express our gratitude to God, we are also called to thank those who keep our community thriving—our dedicated volunteers. Besides God’s grace, our volunteers help sustain our parish. It is right to acknowledge and celebrate their generosity of time and talent.
To honor our Volunteers, we will host the:
75th Anniversary Volunteer Appreciation Dinner
Saturday, November 23, 2024,
beginning with the 5:00 PM Mass.
I encourage all volunteers to RSVP by contacting Ms. Mary Parra at 626-792-1343.
Thank you, and may God bless you abundantly.
In Christ,
Fr. Mike Ume
