As we focus so much of our energy on evangelization, I wanted to share an update on another program that our parish is supporting in the development of Young Adults. Last week I mentioned the ministry of Liz Greenop, our Echo Apprentice from the Note Dame graduate program. She was also the focus of our most recent podcast. This week I want to provide some details on a program called FOCUS-Fellowship of Catholic University Students, specifically at Boston University. We are supporting Barbara Chrobak in her ministry as a FOCUS missionary. Because of our support, Barbara has been providing us with monthly Mission Updates letting us know the fruits of our support.
This past semester Barbara helped organize a “Fall Retreat” for students where the focus was on community in the life of a disciple. She and her fellow FOCUS missionaries put ideas into action by starting a C.S. Lewis Book Club, leading a men’s group, and inspiring attendance in evening Adoration, resulting in significantly increased attendance. These are just some of the ministerial initiatives she is advancing in her ministry of evangelizing young adults in the faith. Let us support Barbara with our prayers as she ministers even beyond our parish. The reach of Saint Helen goes so much farther than we can imagine.
On the home front, this has been an exciting time for our young parishioners. Congratulations to our second-year students who made their First Reconciliation last weekend.
Our Middle School Retreat was held this past weekend as well and brought together close to 70 of our middle schoolers. Earlier in the month, we also held a college reunion event with our young adults in college.
This upcoming week we will celebrate our Family Sacrament Group’s First Reconciliation for children outside of our usual sequence.
Next Saturday, February 4, 2023, Saint Helen was asked by the Archdiocese to host the World Day for Consecrating Life which invites all religious communities ministering in the Archdiocese of Newark as well as all the people of the Archdiocese. Cardinal Tobin will preside as main celebrant at 11:00 AM and a luncheon will follow in Meaney Hall. You are all invited to the Mass and reception. You will need to RSVP to Karin Walters in the Office of Clergy Personnel: [email protected] as soon as possible.
God bless you.
Msgr. Tom
