Dear Folks,

This past week we were blessed to have Bishop Burbidge visit our parish school.  Since he has arrived in the diocese, he has made it a prime emphasis to support Catholic Education and visit each of the schools in the diocese.  I could tell that he has honed his schedule and message by visiting schools to express his gratitude and support!  Our teachers and staff worked so wonderfully to give him a great welcome.
He asked our children to fill in the blank: “Holy Cross Academy is great because we have great _____.”  And with their answers, he was able to weave a homily of gratitude for our great: teachers, students, priests, and food! Yep, the students told him how great our school food is!  I could tell that he was prepared for and expecting the other answers, but that the great food was a pleasant surprise.  His homily and message expressed gratitude for the dedication and service of so many that make our school great.
With thanksgiving this coming week, a reminder that there is just one Mass on Thanksgiving day.  The last several years, were also blessed to host the Micah ecumenical Thanksgiving prayer service.  This year I have been asked to preach it, and it will held at the Presbyterian Church downtown.  I am excited for this my first opportunity to preach at these lovely gatherings with our brothers and sisters in Christ!
Advent family prayers:  this week we have included a brochure with practical suggestions on how to make advent prayer a part of routine.  I hope that the practical suggestions will be of some assistance so that when Advent begins next weekend, you will be ready!

pax et bonum,
fr mosimann