AMDG
Dear OSJ Family,
With the holidays behind us now, I simply want to take a moment to offer a word of thanks, on behalf of all in the parish, to those who helped us to celebrate the holy season of Christmas at OSJ with such beauty and reverence. The experience of “my first Christmas at OSJ” was incredible. Our church was filled for every Mass, the spirit was tangible and the community celebrated with great joy. Thanks especially to all of our liturgical ministers: acolytes, music ministers, lectors, Eucharistic ministers, ushers, hospitality ministers, and art and environment ministers. The church looked beautiful, elegant in fact, and the crèche was inspiring.
Thanks as well to Mr. Ronald Rex Piselli, our dedicated parish funeral director, who loaned us the beautiful Gesu Bambino statue and several sacred vessels. They were perfect. I learned quickly that the Gesu Bambino is a loved fixture at OSJ!
Finally, thanks also to all who sent gifts for the Jesuit Community and for the parish. We are grateful for your remembrance.
In closing I am happy to share too that our friends at the Al-Aqsa Islamic Society sent us a letter of thanks for our recent show of solidary and support following the the shameful act of vandalism committed there a few weeks back. They pledged their gratitude and respect to our parish community.
My prayer is that we all continue to work to promote greater love, understanding and compassion among peoples of all faiths, as God would have us. Again thanks to all and a very Blessed 2016!
With my esteem and prayers,
© 2016 Fr. Philip A. Florio, S.J.
Pastor
