I. Welcome and Happy Resurrection! For Christians around the world, Easter celebrates Jesus’ Risen Life, but also our share in it. Easter celebrate Jesus’ love for all humanity, but also our call to love as Jesus did. Easter is about darkness giving way to Light, death giving way to Life, sacrifice giving way to Love. We are to be the “disciple whom Jesus loved” who sees the emptiness of materialism, consumerism, electronic distractions and sin. The goodness and generosity of our lives challenges others to see and believe, to see and love, to see and come to the Light! On behalf of Father Sinoj Pynadath HGN, our Parish Pastoral Team and Council, I wish for you the New Life and the New Hope which our Risen Lord can give!
It is good that you are here! Alleluia! Alleluia!
II. Catholic Faith ON DEMAND: What more could you ask for? Parents, young adults, teens, seniors—everyone can benefit from this wonderful tool. It is totally free for you. I have renewed the Cathedral’s subscription for this website and mobile app. It’s great for family time! It’s great for a long car ride or flight. The kids can watch videos made just for them and teens and adults can delve into areas of our Catholic Faith they’d love to know more about. You can also experience prayer time and reflect on scripture passages and spiritual reading. You can learn more about the saints, too. You will have access to thousands of studies, films, audios, and ebooks. Discover great digital media from over 40 of the best Catholic content producers including the Augustine Institute, Ignatius Press, the USCCB, Catholic Answers, EWTN, St. Paul Center, Marian Press, Sophia Press, FOCUS, Knights of Columbus, and many more. Download the app for Android and iPhone or go to the www.ststephencathedral.org and click on the FORMED ad on the homepage.
III. “Across the Diocese” is a 6-9 minute video series through which our Bishop communicates with us, his people, about various issues and topics. This avenue of communication features guests who serve in and around the Diocese of Owensboro, in the 32 counties of Western Kentucky. Join Bishop Medley every month as he hosts this video conversation! If you are not signed up for this electronic newsletter, you may do so at http://eepurl.com/bF4ZtX. You may also view or sign up from our website at www.ststephencathedral.org.
IV. The Cathedral Facebook is a convenient way to stay in touch with happenings and activities of our Parish and Diocese through pictures, Sunday Scripture readings, announcements, activities, etc. Join the 650+ who have signed up on the Cathedral Facebook page at www.facebook.com/StStephenCathedral/ or click on the Facebook icon from our website. “Like” us on Facebook, if you have not done so.
V. Welcome Back Session: Over the past 43 years, I have discovered there are many reasons why people have distanced themselves, left, or wandered away from the active practice of their Catholic faith. Whatever the reason, is it time for you to reconnect with your Church family? Do not hesitate to contact Fr. Sinoj Pynadath HGN, Donna Murphy, Rick Rhodes, or myself, 270/683-6525. Join us Monday, May 6 in the Media Center (in the parish office near to back parking lot) from 6:00-7:00 p.m. We would consider it an honor and a privilege to sit with you with open hearts and dialogue. Think about it. Talk about it. Pray about it.
VI. New Entrance, Springtime, Fresh Beginning, All are Welcome! After many months, our porch renovations are nearly complete, thanks to your prayers and contributions to our “Safe and Secure” efforts. Many of you made a three year commitment. Some made a one time donation. Whether large or small, each contribution is needed and honored. Thank you! Gratitude for our faith community and what it offers (beautiful liturgies for worship, opportunities for service and involvement). We are beginning work on a long-range parish plan to set goals that will foster our strengths and address areas of concern. Your support and prayers are essential and needed. I am truly grateful for you who make up this Saint Stephen Cathedral faith community.