Dear Friends,
When I went to the USCCB website to check on the readings for this weekend, I was intrigued with a picture of an obviously just married and very joyful couple coming out of Church and the announcement for National Marriage Week (February 7-14) and World Marriage Day, next Sunday, February 13. In the midst of winter’s doldrums, we are invited to partake in “an opportunity to focus on building a culture of life and love that begins with supporting and promoting marriage and the family.”
The theme for this year is “Called to the Joy of Love.” May I suggest that you check out the information in support of marriage and families which the US Bishops have available at https://www.foryourmarriage.org/celebrate-national-marriage-week/ . The Bishops also offer a prayer for married couples which you may wish to pray not just this week but throughout the year ~ “Almighty and eternal God, You blessed the union of married couples so that they might reflect the union of Christ with his Church: look with kindness on them. Renew their marriage covenant, increase your love in them, and strengthen their bond of peace so that, with their children, they may always rejoice in the gift of your blessing. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.”
May all our married couples be strengthened in faith, hope, and love through the reception of the Sacraments and personal prayer. Why not plan to stop into Church this week and make a ten-minute visit with our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament, asking for His grace upon you, your spouse, your children, and family. At the end of the Masses next weekend, we will offer a special blessing for all married couples.
As announced last weekend, this weekend kicks off the 2022 Catholic Charities Appeal. This most noble of appeals allows us to participate in assisting hundreds of thousands of people through the programs which are funded through the Appeal. Your donations make a real difference in the lives of our neighbors in need.
The Appeal video offering direct information on those benefiting from the Appeal is available on the narthex screen near to Chapel as well as on our website. Be sure to check it out. The Lord loves a cheerful giver, so pray about what you will donate this year out of love for the Lord. A direct mailing was sent to your homes, you may return the donation envelope directly via mail. You may also donate online at https://www.catholiccharitiesappeal.org/. Be sure to identify Saint Eleanor as your parish. Thank you for always responding so generously to those in need!
God bless you, God love you,
Monsignor McCulken
