Apr 28, 2013 – Fifth Sunday of Easter

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

 As we approach the Day of the Ascension, the Gospel proclamation once again turns to Christ’s admonition: in a little while I will no longer be with you. Jesus commends his apostles and future disciples to love one another as he has loved them. In this mutual love we come to understand that we and they are Christ’s disciples. This love is amply illustrated in the Acts of the Apostles where the apostles and the saints endure every trial and challenge for the sake of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We pray for and expect with joy a “New Heaven and a New Earth” (Rev. 21:1).  

This weekend the Golden Gate Boys Choir and Bell Ringers will perform a fund-raising event in our church: Sunday, April 28th at 2 p.m. Your support of this Catholic non-profit organization affords the boys and youth an opportunity to learn quality music, singing and bell ringing. As a former chaplain, I was privileged to travel to Vatican City with the GGBC. Together with other choirs of the Pueri Cantores international organization we sang for the Pope!

We prepare to celebrate the Sisters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary who have served us so well over the years. This coming May 5th at the 11a.m. Mass and reception we recognize and give thanks for sixty years of service in the California region and 58 years at Saint Jerome Parish and School. About eight sisters will be present along with invited clergy and guests. Judy Valladao, the Social Activities Group, and the Pastoral Council represented by Barbara Cortese have worked hard to prepare the festivity. I am very grateful for the follow-through on their part to make this event, incollaboration with the sisters’ coordinator, Sr. Kathleen Laverty, a memorable experience. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Our annual First Communion Mass looms over the horizon, Saturday, May 11th at 10:30 a.m. 35 children will receive Eucharist in the company of family and friends. Please pray to them and encourage their continued commitment to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. My thanks to parents and family members who accepted “the responsibility of training their children in the practice of the faith”. (Rite of Baptism for Children, 1970).

The School Spring Festival is Sunday, May 19th following the 9a.m. Family Mass. Your support continues to help improve quality Catholic education for our children.

Finally, I ask your prayers for two events. Sometime in the near future I will ask doctors to perform an atrial ablation to correct my heart beat. Second, I ask your prayers for the success of the Latino Mens’ Cursillo weekend, May 24-27 where I expect to be Spiritual Director.

Blessings from the Lord Jesus Christ!

Fr. Fernando J. Cortez, Pastor