To the parishioners of St. Philip Neri Parish, sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints –
“Grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ”.
God answers every one of our prayers … sometimes He says, “No!”
I asked God to take away my bad habits.
God said, “No … it’s not for me to take them away, but for you to give them up”.
I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said, “No … his spirit is whole, his body is only temporary”.
I asked God to grant me patience.
God said, “No … patience is a by-product of tribulations. It isn’t granted, it is learned”.
I asked God to give me happiness.
God said, “No … I give you blessings. Happiness is up to you”.
I asked God to spare me pain.
God said, “No … suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me”.
I asked God to make my spirit grow.
God said, “No … you must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you fruitful”.
I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said, “No … I will give you life so that you may enjoy all things”.
I asked God to help me LOVE others, as much as he loves me.
God said, “Ahhh … finally you have the idea!”
Praise be Jesus Christ … and Mary Immaculate
St. Philip Neri … pray for us
St. Eugene de Mazenod … pray for us
St. Kateri Tekakwitha … pray for us
God is good … all the time.
Fr. Mike Dechant OMI
Something from the Parish:
Mark your calendar:
- This Sunday, March 19, is “Cookie Saturday/Sunday”. Thank you for your generosity and the opportunity to gather as Parish Family” … to meet and greet, and grow in appreciation of each other.
- Each Friday during Lent, let’s gather to reflect on Jesus’ journey – “the Stations of the Cross” – beginning with prayer at 5 pm, followed by food and friendship. NOTE: The cash donation each week will go to supplement the costs of the Women’s Retreat.
- On Friday-Saturday, May 5–6, the women of SPN Parish are invited to gather for a Women’s Retreat. Through scripture, music, ritual and reflection, the Retreat Team will invite you to reflect on how each “Season of Life” can be enriching, challenging and an opportunity to draw closer to God.
Please Note: No one will be turned away for lack of funds. Pay what you are able and the Parish will supplement the remainder of the costs.
Sincerely, Fr. Mike Dechant OMI