Kaukauna Catholic Parishes

     God’s blessings! In our first reading from the 1st Book of Samuel, we learn, “The Lord will reward each man for his justice and faithfulness.” God favors those who are faithful to him. Are we faithful to God?

     Our Gospel from Luke tells us, “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” Then, “Your reward will be great!” God’s abundant love cannot be contained. This is part of the so-called, “Sermon on the Plain.” This Scripture piece concludes with, “For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you.” In other words, “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” 

      Our Psalm reinforces this, “The Lord is kind and merciful.” It continues, “The Lord heals, redeems your life, and crowns you with kindness and compassion.” St. Paul’s Letter to the Corinthians reminds us, “Just as we have borne the image of the earthly one, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly one.” As promised, God is with us always. As our Bishop’s Appeal theme reflects, “May our hearts be filled with hope.”

     The Kaukauna Catholic Parishes have a Pre-Lenten Mission this week – helping us better understand faithfulness and mercy, featuring Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers. He is presenting five distinct topics in three days, with comparable programs in the morning at Holy Cross, and evening at St. Katharine Drexel– St. Mary, plus two special talks at Holy Cross for our students at St. Ignatius that adults are also welcome to attend. Check it out!

     We are also encouraging people to check out “THE CHOSEN.” It is an online program from the perspective of the disciples. Seasons 1 and 2 are complete and available, each consisting of eight episodes, approximately 45 minutes each. Season 3 will be available for viewing this fall. It is a unique look at life in biblical times.

     Lent is not far off. There will be Stations of the Cross each Sunday afternoon. The first weekend of Stations will feature many women on Sunday, March 6 – Stations from the perspective of Mary and the women, at SKD – St. Mary. We are also encouraging women to consider attending the Women’s Cursillo weekend at St. John Nepomucene in Little Chute – from Thursday evening, March 31 to Sunday, April 3. (Any questions, please contact Peggy or me.)

     There will be a BLOOD DRIVE in Lent, in the Parish Center, on the Feast of St. Katharine Drexel,  Thursday, March 3, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. Please consider donating, which is a life-giving opportunity. 

      The Kaukauna Catholic Parishes have decided to focus on another life-giving opportunity during Lent, Vida Medical Clinic (formerly known as Mother & Unborn Baby Care / Womankind). Our parishes have been a major supporter of them through the “Bowl for Life” for years. From our understanding of Stewardship, we are inviting people to support them in prayer, service and sharing as we help women in unexpected pregnancies and families with ongoing support. What a wonderful way to show ourfaithfulness to God, the author of life, and mercy to others, giving people hope.

Thank you and God bless,

Deacon Steve