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LIFE - God's Gift - Which Jesus Himself Experienced - February 2, 2020

Photo of Deacon Steve Vande Hey 
God’s blessings!

This weekend, we commemorate the “Presentation of the Lord” as Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the temple in Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord. The Gospel from Luke tells us, through Jesus, “The thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” It goes on, “The child (Jesus) grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was with him.” On our lifelong journey of faith as missionary disciples, may we give thanks for the gift of Jesus, who we continue to discover, live and share, and for the gift of life itself.

In the 2nd reading, from the Letter to the Hebrews, we hear, “Since the children share in blood and flesh, Jesus likewise shared in them.” Jesus is fully human and fully God. “Because he himself was tested through what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested.” Jesus understands how precious life is, and has brought salvation to all. Jesus thinks we are “worth it” and, in effect, encourages us to choose life in all of our decisions, to be life-giving.

There were many opportunities this past month to develop a deeper respect for life, and be life-giving. Our Discipleship Team showed the movie “Unplanned” on Tuesday, January 7, to youth and adults, followed by a witness from Fr. Walter Stumpf of St. Edward in        Mackville, and St. Nicholas in Freedom, and some beautiful sharing by Nikki Biese of Biking for Babies. Many of those attending that night participated in the Chicago March for Life on Saturday, January 11.

I was privileged to assist Bishop David Ricken at the annual Diocesan Respect Life Mass, celebrated at St. Mary of the Angels in De Pere, on Tuesday, January 21. A good number of Kaukauna people were among the wonderful turnout there, and two busloads of youth and adults received a special blessing at that Mass as they headed to Washington, DC, for the 47th annual March for Life and Rally. Our granddaughter, Clara, was among those participating. The March and Rally were held on Friday, January 24. President Donald Trump was the first sitting president to address the rally in person. Our youth and adults had many opportunities for prayer throughout their journey.

We promoted the annual Bowl for Life earlier in January. The Bowl for Life supports women and families in the midst of crisis pregnancies, through Mother & Unborn Baby Care (MUBC), which continues to support them after the birth of their babies. MUBC also includes Vida Medical Clinic, providing important services to men and women. Our Kaukauna Catholic Parishes have a long history of support. The Bowl is next Saturday, February 8. Envelopes to make contributions are located in church entrances and can be brought to the parish office or given to me or my wife Peggy. Please turn in donations by Friday, February 7.  Thank you!

Catholic Schools Week is coming to a close. My wife, Peggy, and I are blessed to have grandchildren in four different Catholic Schools: St. Ignatius in Kaukauna, St. John in Little Chute, St. Edward in Mackville, and St. Mary High School in Neenah. All of us Catholics are blessed to have such opportunities for our families where we can openly share our love of God in these educational settings. Hearts are being touched in positive ways through our Catholic Schools and our Discipleship Formation.

For adults: If you are looking for a place to share your love of God in a safe and fun environment, please consider attending a Cursillo weekend. The weekends begin on a Thursday evening and continue until Sunday night. The Spring Men’s weekend is                    March 26–29 at  Assumption in Pulaski, and the Women’s is April 23-26 at Sacred Heart in Appleton. For more information, please contact Deacon Bruce or my wife Peggy and me. This could be a great step in your lifelong journey of faith.

Peace in Christ,

Deacon Steve

 

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