Dear Friends,
Last weekend was certainly packed and impactful. Father Linus on behalf of the Mission Co-op Appeal, spoke at all the Masses about the needs of the Donkorkrom Apostolic Vicariate in Ghana. For those who attended the Vigil Mass, you heard the very long version of his appeal; those who attended the Sunday Masses heard his shortened version. He was a very engaging and kind priest and shared about the many needs they are facing. Your donation for this mission appeal may be placed in the collection baskets with your Sunday donations for our parish. Mark the envelope for the “Missions” or write that in the memo portion of the check.
Of course, the biggest news last weekend was Father Giardini’s reassignment. After three years with us, and what an eventful three years it has been with the pandemic, he is becoming the full time School Minister at Pope John Paul II High School. He will reside at Saint Teresa of Calcutta Parish. So, he will continue to be local as he begins this new ministry. We thank Father for his energy, zeal, and devoted priestly ministry here at Saint Eleanor and assure him of prayers for God’s blessings on his new endeavors on behalf of our Lord. We are scheduling a Farewell Mass and reception for Father Giardini on June 12, at the 12 Noon Mass. More details to come.
Once again, our parish family has the joy of welcoming a newly ordained priest, Father Henry Graebe. Father Graebe’s First Mass of Thanksgiving was at Saint Andrew Parish, Newtown. He has a brother who is a priest and pastor in the Archdiocese of New York. Father Graebe will officially arrive on June 20, but you might see him around even before then. I know you will offer him the traditional warm and loving welcome our parish family is so noted for. We look forward to his arrival and priestly ministry here.
Just a reminder that this weekend at the 12 Noon Mass, Father Andrew Auletta will be our celebrant. A small reception will take place after Mass in the school cafeteria. Father has been assigned to Saint Joseph Church, Downingtown. Father Sang Woo Chi will celebrate the 12 Noon Mass on Pentecost Sunday, June 5 and newly ordained Deacon Anthony Albanese will preach at that Mass. They will both join us for our Parish Pentecost Picnic after the Mass. Father Sang Woo Chi has been assigned to Saint Christopher Church, Philadelphia. It is so awesome to have these men come back to our parish family and share themselves and their ministry with us.
This being Memorial Day weekend, we offer prayers for all those men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country and freedom. God grant them everlasting rest. We gratefully acknowledge all those who are serving in our Armed Forces today, or have served in the past, we thank you for your commitment and sacrifice.
God bless you, God love you,
Monsignor McCulken
