Many come to church expecting it to be open, clean, warm/cool, well-lighted, restrooms in good working order, etc., etc., etc.  I wonder how many realize that it takes a small “army” to make it comfortable for one and all.  Our Maintenance Supervisor, Tim Murray, and his staff, Tony and Anthony, take care of the grounds of the school and the church ensuring that it looks as it does today.   Our church custodian, Nora Arriola, continues to do a terrific job in polishing the floors, dusting pews, taking out trash that people leave behind and, very importantly, keeps the restrooms clean and sweet smelling despite its misuse by so many.  To me, they are the “unseen” ones that make our lives comfortable and safe without much of a fanfare and expectation of even a simple “THANK YOU!” 

As we meditate on the Gospel this Sunday about us being the “salt of the earth”, I can’t help but be reminded of the many people whose service remains unseen and unacknowledged.   Yet, we enjoy the fruits of their labor.   Perhaps, when you see them around the parish, you may want to say “thank you”.  I’m sure that it will mean so much to them.  

*****

As you will read in Bishop Weisenburger’s letter included in this weekend’s parish bulletin, he is moving Fr. Justin Agbir to Our Mother of Sorrow’s Parish as Parochial Vicar beginning March 1^st.  

As most of you know, Ss. Peter and Paul is his first parish assignment after ordination and has now been with us for almost four years.  

Let us thank Fr. Justin for his dedicated service to our parish and continue to pray for his success in his next assignment.  We will have an opportunity to express our gratitude to him at a reception that is currently being planned for the end of the Month.  

 Father's note Continues on top of the next column 

*****

On the upcoming feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, patroness of the sick, we would like to invite you to come to the 7 am mass on Saturday, February 11.   It will be an opportunity for us to fervently pray for all of those who are currently facing some serious health challenges.  This is open to everyone – Catholics, Christians, etc. – who believe in the power of healing through prayer.  

*****

As we prepare our taxes for the year 2022, let us participate in the CATHOLIC TUITION SUPPORT ORGANIZATION and support Catholic Education.  

It is an opportunity for us to direct our STATE TAXES to help pay for tuition fees for our students and, as it is a DOLLAR FOR DOLLAR TAX CREDIT, it won’t cost you any more than what we have to pay. Please help!  We need every cent we can gather.  

We have also launched the ANNUAL CATHOLIC APPEAL which is a yearly gathering of the faithful’s resources to finance 26 ministries of the Diocese of Tucson.  

A significant portion goes to finance Vocations to the priesthood and the clergy, continuing education, etc.  

Please consider assisting the mission that the Lord has given us – “TO BRING THE GOOD NEWS OF SALVATION”! 

*****