Sunday, July 6th 2025
Dear Parishioners of Pope St. John XXIII Parish Faith Community,
Greetings and blessings to you all as we gather to celebrate the Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time.
Although we have been in the liturgical season of Ordinary Time since Pentecost, we have joyfully celebrated several solemnities in recent weeks. Todays liturgy of the Word invites us to reflect on Gods call and our mission as His people.
In the first reading, the prophet Isaiah extends a beautiful invitation to all: come to Jerusalem and witness the tender care of our God. This vision of the New Jerusalem symbolizes both the heavenly kingdom and the Church the dwelling place of God among His people. As Christians, we are called to be witnesses to the world of Gods love and the saving sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
In the Gospel, we see Jesus commissioning seventy-two disciples to go ahead of Him, proclaim the Kingdom of God, heal the sick, and cast out demons. They return rejoicing, not in their own accomplishments, but in the power given to them by the Lord. Their joy is a reminder to us that the mission of the Church belongs to all who follow Christ not just the original twelve apostles.
Each of us, as followers of Jesus, shares in this mission. We are called to be active participants in the life of the Church not just attendees but living witnesses to Gods love in action. I want to sincerely thank each and every one of you who serve our parish community in countless ways: in faith formation, liturgy, music ministry, hospitality, as lectors, Eucharistic ministers, ushers, and volunteers. Your service, whether visible or behind the scenes, breathes life into our parish and reflects the vibrant faith we share.
I also extend heartfelt gratitude to the leadership committees at each of our parish locations, our pastoral and finance councils, our Parish Family Advisory Council, and to all our benefactors and well-wishers. Your commitment and generosity sustain our mission and allow our faith community to flourish.
Last Friday, we came together to celebrate our nations freedom with a patriotic rosary and a special Eucharistic celebration for our country and its leaders. Thank you to all who joined in prayer and thanksgiving for our blessings, and in hopeful petition for our nations future.
Looking ahead, we are preparing for a momentous occasion the centennial celebration of our parish. I warmly invite each of you to actively participate in this joyful event. Special thanks to Mrs. Tien Vo and the dedicated team organizing this celebration, with the support of our leadership committees and liturgy group. Please help us spread the word by inviting your family, friends, and former parishioners of St. Anns Church, no matter where they may be.
I also encourage everyone to prayerfully respond to this years Annual Catholic Appeal (ACA). Your support helps sustain the many ministries and outreach efforts that serve not just our parish but the broader diocesan community.
To all our parishioners who are away enjoying summer break with loved ones: ENJOY this well-deserved time of rest and renewal. Remember to take time to pray together as a family wherever you are. Know that I am praying for your safety, joy, and spiritual refreshment during your travels.
Please take time to read our parish bulletin for further updates and announcements. If you would like to receive the bulletin while you are away, you may sign up with Sr. Linh. You can also stay connected by visiting our parish website at www.psj23.org.
May this coming week be filled with grace and blessings for you and your loved ones.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Fr. Tuan Nguyen, D. Min
Pastor