Dear Folks,

Are you truly happy? It seems that very few of us have used the copious time the pandemic granted to accomplish the things we hoped we might. I am curious, because I heard of a priest who asked his 6th graders this question, and they replied that “it is not possible to be perfectly happy…” with one exception. Only one child made reference to Christ, and responded with a resounding “ yes.”’ What would make you happy? If your answer to that is anything other than one word, you need to reexamine.

I like technology, and computers, and Blu-Ray, and games, and skiing, and golf, and I never cease to be amazed that I can always fill up my Amazon Wish List. No matter how many things come off of it and into my little hands, there is always more going up. Gifts are great, and a lovely expression of our affection for one another. But, I really want to be truly happy and the only wish list that really matters has only one word on it: “Jesus.”

Speaking of gifts, these next couple Saturdays, we will have several more weekends of First Holy Communions. I remember with joy the excitement my special day, and even where I sat in the church for the Mass (3rd row on the left side of main aisle). I also remember how many of my friends were talking about how much money they would get. However, as the 7th of 8 children, I knew that I would not rake in as much cash as my friends were bragging about. But that did make me think about what I really wanted, and I remember a pious thought that all that really matters is Jesus.

My prayer this week for our children is that they will truly be happy and that they will know that happiness in the person of Jesus Christ, whom they can receive at any Catholic Mass every single day. Money and gifts will come and go, but Jesus is forever. Please join me this week in praying for our First Communicants.

pax,

Fr. John Mosimann