"My child, remember that you received what was good during your lifetime while Lazarus likewise received what was bad; but now he is comforted here, whereas you are tormented. Moreover, between us and you a great chasm is established to prevent anyone from crossing who might wish to go from our side to yours or from your side to ours."
(Luke 16:25-26)
In the gospel reading for the Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time we hear Jesus again tell the Pharisees a parable, the parable of Lazarus and the Rich Man. It is a parable about wealth and the way He meant for it to be used. These type of teachings, and this parable in particular, tend to make us uncomfortable as they highlight the pitfalls of wealth and remind us that our possessions are not owned by us, but entrusted to us so that we can help others. We are called to not be self-absorbed and to perform acts of charity, mercy, and benevolence - love your neighbor, help those in need. The common welfare is our business and we are called to live generous, joyful lives aware of the consequences of selfishness and inaction. In a world filled with wealth and abundance, how do we have so much homelessness, hunger, loneliness, and despair? What are you doing to change that? Open your eyes to what is around you and open you ears to the simple commands of the Gospel: love your neighbor.
IT'S TIME TO PARTY!
Saturday is the big day so grab your friends (and your lawn chairs) and join us for a night of fun on the Hill!
As a reminder, there will be a shuttle operating from the parking lot to the activities on the 8th Street side of the Hill. Please make sure to take advantage of this service!
Religious Ed Classes Start Next Week!
Wednesday, September 28 is the first day of Religious Education classes for the 2022-'23 school year for grades K - 6. Classes are from either 4:00 - 5:15 PM OR 6:30 - 7:45 PM at the Mazzuchelli Center (2407 Cedar Street Muscatine, Iowa 52761).
Calling all those interested in Altar Serving!
On Sunday, October 2 at 9:15 AM there will be Altar Server training for all those, in grades 4th and up, who are interested in Altar Serving at Saints Mary & Mathias. It will be in the main body of the Church immediately following the 8:00 AM Mass. Please have a parent call or text Luke Rauenbuehler at 563.590.0702, or call the Parish Office, to reserve a spot in this training session!
High School Feasibility Study Survey
Last week, surveys were made available to families of school-age children asking for your opinions about a new 9th-12th grade program at Saints Mary & Mathias Catholic School. For all who have responded to the survey – Thank you!
If you have not completed the survey, please complete it online here by September 23, 2022. We are asking all families to respond to the survey, regardless of whether you have school age children or not. Your response is very important. Thank you for your support and participation!
Estudio de Factibilidad de la Escuela Secundaria Católica Grados 9 al 12
Invitación a la encuesta:
Se está estudiando una nueva y emocionante oportunidad para que la Escuela Católica Santa Maria y Matias incluya un programa de escuela secundaria. La Parroquia y Escuela Católica Santa Maria y Matias, asistida por una consultora profesional, Meitler, le invita a participar en una encuesta para familias con niños en edad escolar hasta el 23 de septiembre de 2022.
El propósito de la encuesta es determinar el interés potencial en un programa de 9º a 12º grado en la Escuela Católica Santa Maria y Matias. Sus respuestas individuales serán confidenciales. Por favor, responda a la encuesta incluso si no planea inscribir a sus hijos en la nueva escuela. Acceda a la encuesta en https: www.marymathias.org/survey
Gracias por su apoyo y participación.