October 30 – Thirty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time

We are in the midst of a highly televised sporting season, from the World Series of Baseball to College and Professional Football.  It is funny to think of the conversations I have with those who love sports as much as I do; the conversation usually revolves around a simple question, “Did you see that game?”  As human beings, there is always a longing to see.  Not only in the things of this world like sports, but more importantly, we long to see in our faith.

In our Gospel this weekend, Zacchaeus longed to see the Lord by climbing a tree.  Zacchaeus was a powerful, wealthy man.  He could have used his stature and authority to push his way to the front. However, Zacchaeus instead chose to climb a tree, and this show of humility and poverty of spirit moved our Lord to respond, “Tonight I must stay at your house!”  In seeing the Lord, Zacchaeus found Jesus entering his heart and home!

With this in mind, I would like to share in humility a desire I have for Our Lady of Mercy.  Just as Jesus blessed and changed Zacchaeus’ life forever, I would like to have more opportunities for that same encounter for our parishioners. I would like to have a beautiful, dedicated Adoration Chapel at our parish under the patronage of Divine Mercy.

There are many reasons for this, but allow me to share just a few. You may already be aware that the US Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) recently called for a Eucharistic Revival in our country. More adoration would follow this call while also spiritually supporting our many beautiful ministries and families. What is more, this would fulfill the original building plans for our Church! If you enjoyed our week of adoration earlier in October, then you’ll be happy to hear that I have already taken steps in making this desire a reality by seeking approval from the bishop, staff, volunteers and some parishioners.

I would like to humbly ask for your support.  As things develop, from design, to contracting, cost, and God-willing construction, I’ll be keeping you informed every step of the way.  As seen in the example of Zacchaeus, I believe that allowing more parishioners to see the Lord in adoration will bear tremendous fruit for our parish. May our desire to see the Lord be fulfilled in this effort, so that we might receive the Lord ever more deeply into our hearts and homes.

Father Michael