Kaukauna Catholic Parishes

God’s blessings! My wife Peggy and I had our hearts filled with joy two weeks ago when our granddaughter Marie was married at Holy Cross, experiencing the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony with her husband, Quinn. It was a beautiful Mass with family very involved in the service, including parents, grandparents, siblings, cousins, in-laws, and friends. The Sacrament was very Christ-centered, and the music truly echoed the glory of God, especially when we sang “Praise God from Whom all Blessings Flow.” Getting married is filled with hope, not knowing how things will play out over time. The presence of God remained with us throughout the dinner and dance that evening, the joy of faith-filled people gathered together. We pray that Marie and Quinn will continue to grow in the love of God and love for each other, knowing that there will be challenges.

In our second reading from the Book of Hebrews, we hear, “Let us rid ourselves of every burden and sin that clings to us and persevere in running the race that lies before us while keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and perfecter of faith.” This reading applies to Marie and Quinn in their marriage, and all married couples, but also to all of us – “keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus.” There are plenty of distractions in our world, so this is not always easy. Our Psalm reminds us that when we need help in various situations, we can ask for help: “Lord, come to our aid!” Please do not be afraid to do that -- asking for help -- and, in our prayer, also remember to thank God for our blessings. Hebrews tells us that Jesus “endured such opposition from sinners, in order that you may not grow weary and lose heart.” Jesus wants us to succeed as disciples, inspired by the Holy Spirit, and have our hearts on fire with love of God and love of neighbor. 

Our love of neighbor may take us out of our comfort zones, but can really make a difference, and help others not grow weary and not lose heart. Perhaps a visit at someone’s home, or at the hospital, nursing home, or assisted living. Perhaps expressing our sympathy to someone who lost a loved one. Maybe helping out at Feeding America, to help those in need with sufficient food. Might I suggest getting involved in the battle against human trafficking, a form of slavery in our time? We invite you to pray for victims of human trafficking and support efforts to end this scourge. Thank all of you for everything you do within your families, our church and community.  We have many opportunities to assist in the welfare of other people and have the power to do so when we fix our eyes on Jesus. 

Deacon Steve