Last Wednesday we celebrated the Mass of ChristianBurial for Raymond Repko. He was a Police Officer for Shaker Heights and when he retired from the Police Depart- ment he joined the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department. He had a strong sense of family and enjoyed giving flowers and candy to others. He especially enjoyed the Thanksgiving, Christmas & Easter gatherings with his family. May he rest in Christ’s peace.
Now that the bell tower roof has been replaced, we arefinally able to repair the hole in the ceiling of the church up against the back brick wall above the crucifix. Along with that repair, we are able to paint the ceiling of the church, both of which are covered by insurance. All of that is scheduled to happen starting October 22nd (since we have to avoid numer- ous weddings which are scheduled for September & October). The scaffolding will be moved from one section to another so my guess is that there will be pews taped off according to what section they are working on. I’m sure you won’t mind this minor and temporary inconvenience during this project. More information will be given as that time draws near.
There have been some parishioners who have attended anumber of workshops on the “Sacred Art of Living & Dying.” They are now in the process of discerning how they can best use the knowledge they have gained in a ministry for our parish community. Presently they are looking at reaching out to parishioners who are in a hospice situation or trying to tend to those who are grieving after the loss of a loved one. What I’d like to know from you is what would you find most beneficial at these times? When a loved one enters hospice, how can we be present to you and to them to offer support? Would you find it helpful to know there is someone who will just listen to you or to walk with you on that journey, whether it is long or short? How can the Church offer its sacramental ministry through Holy Communion, Anointing of the Sick, and the Last Rites? Or are you in need of our support after a loved one has died? Would a Bereavement Support Group be helpful to you? Or would you just like to know there is someone who could walk with you when you experience that change in your life? We are looking to see how we can best serve you but we need to ask what your needs are before we offer our ministry to you. Please feel free to write me or Deacon Pat or Joan a note, send an email, call the parish office, or see us before or after Mass to give us your thoughts.
I will be (cautiously) taking vacation as of this Sundaythrough next Saturday. Still mindful of how I became ill during my last vacation in May, I’ll be hoping for a relaxing and healthy week. My thanks to Fr. O’Grady and Deacon Pat for doubling up this weekend so I can get away. I’ll be looking for the right opportunity to share with you in a homily what I hope to experience while away. All I can say is that it is of biblical proportions...