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”.
Praying “in the Spirit of Lent”
Heavenly Father, help me to remember that the jerk who cut us off in traffic last night is a single mother – who worked nine hours that day and is rushing home to cook dinner, help her kids with homework, do the laundry and spend a few precious moments with her children.
Help me to remember that the pierced, tattooed, disinterested young man who can’t make change correctly is a worried nineteen-year-old university student – balancing his apprehension over final exams with his fear of not getting his student loans for next year.
Remind me, Lord, that the scary-looking bum, begging for money in the same spot every day – who really ought to get a job – is a slave to addictions that we can only imagine in our worst nightmares.
Help me to remember that the old couple walking annoyingly through the store aisles, and blocking our shopping progress, are savouring this moment – based on the biopsy report she got back last week, that this will be the last year that they go shopping together.
Loving and generous God, remind us each day that, of all the gifts you give us, the greatest gift is LOVE. Open our hearts, not to just those who are close to us, but to all humanity. Let us be slow to judge and quick to forgive, show patience, empathy, and love.
As you love us, in Christ, so may we love each other. Amen.
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.
Something from the Parish:
To the women of St. Philp Neri Parish: Mark your calendar with this upcoming Women’s Retreat!
On Friday-Saturday, May 5 – 6: Through scripture, music, ritual and reflection, the Retreat Team invites 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; the Parish will supplement the remainder of the costs.
Sincerely, Fr. Mike Dechant OMI