News - June 2023

The Fourth of July, which we celebrate this week, can be a complex holiday for many Christians. Concerned by the violence and anger we see in the media, by the sins and selfishness evident in American history, we can become disheartened, wondering if we have not returned to a time when we must choose between Caesar and Christ. And yet, when the words of the Declaration of Independence are read—for all the failure to realize their ideals—I still find myself moved, and called to a people that would proclaim such a vision for the first time in human history.

I love our June banners: “Church of Mercy” and “Light for All.” They give clear voice to the kind of Catholic faith community that we aspire to be – a community of believers that embodies the compassion and mercy of Jesus and welcomes everyone.

This last week, 11 June, would have been my father, William D. Whitney, Jr.’s, 103rd birthday. Though he died 36 years ago, he remains the most important man in my life, whose example still informs my sense of integrity and compassion, decency and virtue.

The women have brought in the lamb, roasted and tender, the bitter herbs, the bread, the wine and the water. The cushions surround the low table, ready for the men to recline. The windows stand open to the soft night air. Outside the noise in the street has died down; everyone is preparing for the evening meal.

My most heartfelt Thank You! to those of you who responded this week to my appeal for this year’s Parish Giving Appeal (PGA). Since Sunday, 97 households donated nearly $51,000 to help us make our 2022-23 budget by June 30. Many of those gifts were in addition to those they had already made. Their generosity inspires me, and it is deeply gratifying. Thank you.