August 23, 2020: 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time
“ … I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven.“
Matthew 16:18
Pastor’s Message
Today, we celebrate the 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time. In today’s Gospel reading, Matthew 16:13-20, we witness the watershed moment when Jesus established his Church on earth. He begins by asking His disciples, “Who do you think I am?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, but others Elijah, and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” (Matt 16:14) Only Peter gets it right when he replies, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” Jesus blesses Peter and says, “For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you but my Father in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church and the gates of hell will not prevail against it.” Thus Jesus establishes His Church and appoints Peter as its leader. It is up to each individual to answer Jesus’ question for his or her self, “Who do you say
I am?”
Over the past weeks, we have had 2 collections every week. I thank you for your generosity in those collections. Please prayerfully consider giving to our parish community online as it does benefit our parish in many important ways.
Registration for our Parish Religious Education Program (PREP) are being taken by Sister Sophie after all Masses in the Lower Church or call the rectory for an appointment. We are anticipating Confirmation in the Fall of 2021. All students in Level 6 PREP or grades 6 & 7 in St. Helena-Incarnation School must register for Confirmation. Registrations are being taken by Sister Sophie after all Masses in the Lower Church or call the rectory for an appointment. Preparation Classes for Confirmation will start in October.
Thanks for reading, stay healthy, reach out to those close to you and last but not least have a good week.
Your Brother and Shepherd,
Rev. Msgr. Joseph Trinh