Friends, in today’s Gospel, Jesus urges us to be ready for his Second Coming. It reminds me of John the Baptist preparing us: “Make straight the way of the Lord.” He is saying that his job is to prepare for the mighty coming of the Lord. A change is coming, a revolution is on the way, a disaster (the destruction of the old) is about to happen. Prepare the way of the Lord.
And what is the manner of preparation? It is a baptism of repentance. Baptism—an immersion in water—reminded first-century Jews of the Exodus, passing through the Red Sea, leaving the ways of slavery behind.
And repentance (metanoia)—going beyond the mind that you have. How our minds are conditioned by the fallen world! How our expectations are shaped, stunted by what has gone before. The world of Tiberius and Pilate and Herod and Caiaphas has shaped our imagination. It’s time, John is saying, for a new mind, a new set of eyes, a new kind of expectation. God is about to act!
Be ready!
Bishop Robert Barron
ST. COLUMBA UPDATES August 6-7, 2022
COLLEGE STUDENT BLESSING
On the weekend of August 6-7, THIS WEEKEND, we will offer a Blessing for College Students as they prepare to return to school. We will also give them a crucifix for their room. Please encourage any college student you know to join us at Mass that weekend.
SECOND COLLECTION THIS WEEKEND
There will be a second Collection this weekend for the Church in Africa. Thank you for your generosity!
PARISH PICNIC SEPTEMBER 11 – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
The Parish Picnic is back and coming to us on September 11 beginning after the 12:00 noon Mass. The big tent is ordered, and Al Ronda from the K of C is our DJ. We need many hands, young and old, to help put this together for our Parish. We will need volunteers for the set-up group, the cooking group, the serving group, the games group (organize games for kids) and the cleanup group. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact the Rectory @ 845-227-8380, and leave your name and a number where Barbara Falcone can reach you.
If you were previously on the organizing committee and would like to continue, please contact the Rectory as well. As soon as we have a committee of volunteers, we will have a brief meeting to discuss the plans. This is a terrific opportunity for us to come together as family and friends, to share in our faith, enjoy good food and each other as a Parish.
Looking forward to being back with all of you again!
Thank you and God Bless.
Barbara Falcone
FOR ADULTS THINKING ABOUT BECOMING CATHOLIC OR WISH TO COMPLETE THEIR SACRAMENTS
St. Columba’s RCIA Group (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) meets every Sunday at 10:00 am in the Bishop Dom Room.
If you are an adult (18+) who has not yet been baptized, baptized in another Christian Faith or a Catholic who has not received First Communion and/or been Confirmed, this is the place for you!
Please contact Deacon Chris at 845-227-8380 or come to one of our sessions to find our more.
SOLEMNITY OF THE ASSUMPTION
This year the Solemnity of the Assumption of Our Lady (August 15) lands on a Monday. Therefore, it IS NOT a Holy Day of Obligation this year. Morning Mass on August 15 will be at 7:00 am.