The clergy and Staff of Saint Catherine of Siena Parish wish you a Happy Easter!
We are grateful for your prayers, kindness, and support of Saint Catherine of Siena Parish. Our parish has been blessed with generations of devoted parishioners and faithful clergy. This is reflected in the beauty of our church and reverent worship. I am grateful to you and all who have helped us give fitting praise to God; especially our music ministry, our decorating team, our altar servers and lectors, and numerous others who participate in making Saint Catherine of Siena Parish a beautiful church and faithful community.
Some years ago, I came across original correspondence from World War II; The Stars and Stripes newspaper. As I carefully examined the pages, I noticed a section called, “Puptent Poets”. The section was reserved for poems and reflections from soldiers in the field. A particular poem entitled, “Reckoning”, caught my attention. It was published in the Easter edition, 1944. What struck me was how the scourge of war had brought such maturity and wisdom to this young soldier. He expressed a whole new appreciation for life, even the simplest things of life. He no longer took life for granted. I think the same applies to those who have meditated on the sacred events of Holy Week and the Triduum of Our Lord’s Passion, Death, and Resurrection.
Reckoning by Sgt. William Renseiman
(Center typeset)
For days that are no more:
I cannot weep as Shelby wept
They never were so glorious
That I their loss deplore.
Now that I’ve lived to learn and think
And value life and youth.
The joys that once I could not prize
Are now as fair as truth.
The love that once I cast aside
And for it had no place,
Is now a blessed sacrament and covenant of grace.
The simple passing courtesy,
That was not then divine,
May now through it’s humanity
Change water into wine.
And the precious fleeting moment,
That once was bright or dull,
Be it where it will today,
I live it to the full.
Often we are like the centurion who only after witnessing the Lord’s crucifixion, can profess; “Truly this was the Son of God!” Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, the life.
May the triumphant grace of the Risen Lord Jesus Christ, bring you new and radiant life. May He make your days bright and full, turn the water of your tears into wine, make precious your every moment, and grace filled your relationships. May you always abide in His covenant of grace and through Him come to have life to the full.
Blessed & Happy Easter,
Father Donohoe