May 11, 2022

Dear Saint Bernadette Family,

After several weeks of particular training (some of which included being shot at with simulated rounds while conducting hostile environment training), I have arrived at my ministry destination here in Agadez, Niger. It is HOT. Basically, I am in a desert environment ministering among a large group of folks each deployed for up to six months at a time from their friends and families. As a chaplain I provide them their one source of 100% confidential conversation, so I serve as a sounding board for many as they sort out their thoughts, issues, emotions, and circumstances. I also provide a friendly face to everyone and I seek to create an "oasis" in the chapel for all to find rest. Besides the heat, one of my largest challenges is traveling between bases so as to offer our Catholic sacraments, because flights can only be arranged on a standby status due to other mission requirements. All of this is to say I am continually being challenged to trust that in Jesus Christ my solutions are already in play, I just can't see them yet! I am happy to report that thus far I have not been disappointed.

I celebrate with you the many wonderful events unfolding there at Saint Bernadette, such as the hiring of our new principal, Mr. Timmerberg, Fr. Biju's imminent return, and our First Communion celebration this Sunday! Nothing lifts the spirits of the deployed more than knowing things are well back home. My sincere gratitude only grows for Fr. Pepper, our Saint Bernadette Staff, and all of our Saint Bernadette family; I am blessed to be on this faith journey with you.

As I minister to our troops on your behalf, know my daily prayers hold you up to God. Thank you for holding my ministry up as well in your prayers. I will send updates and highlights as my deployment advances even as does my return home to you.

Much love,

From the other side of the world,

Fr. Jeff 

One of Saint Bernadette’s strengths is that we have a very welcoming parish community. Our Welcome Ministers greet all who walk through the doors of our church building before Mass and engage with those who are interested in joining Saint Bernadette after Mass.  We will have a short training session for new welcome ministers this Sunday, May 15th, at 9:45am in the narthex.  We will gather next to the day chapel.  This is a great ministry for those with a welcoming smile, a cheerful attitude, and a love for getting to know others.