THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS AND SOME UPDATES

It was a glorious Easter Season, ending with Pentecost Sunday on May 24. Though we have since entered into Ordinary Time, there has still been much to celebrate. Trinity Sunday on May 31 was followed by Corpus Christi last weekend, and now this Friday, June 12, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Rooted in the 17th-century apparitions to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, we are invited to draw close to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, whose tender, merciful love draws us deeper in union within ourselves and with one another. This devotion to His Sacred Heart also includes making reparation for the many offenses against Him. I encourage you to spend some time with the recent papal encyclical Dilexit Nos ("He Loved Us") which has much to say of Jesus’ Sacred Heart, or else perhaps to read one of the many summaries that have been written.

Uniquely this year, on the eve of the Solemnity, the bishops of the United States formally consecrated our nation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a historic act offered as part of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. If you missed it, it is not too late to unite your hearts to this powerful act of entrustment as we pray for graces from the Heart of Jesus upon our families, our city, and our nation!

There is also some staff news to share.

First, I’d like to share this note from Hanna McLevish, who has truly been exemplary in her dual role of Pastoral Care and Administrative Assistant to Clergy:

Lately, I’ve been reminded of the Lord’s faithfulness through every season of life, especially in times of transition. It is with both gratitude and trust in the Lord that I share that I will be stepping away from my role here at the parish. Through prayer and discernment, I felt a gentle nudge from the Holy Spirit leading me toward something unexpected, reminding me that surrender often begins with trusting where God is leading, even when the path is not fully clear. As I prepare to leave, I’m especially grateful for the ways this community has welcomed, supported, and prayed for me throughout my time here. Please keep me in your prayers, as I will continue to keep all of you in mine. It has been a gift to be a part of this parish community. With gratitude,

~Hanna McLevish

Additionally, Tom Johannes, parishioner since 1980 and most recently serving as a Maintenance Associate, turned in his keys on June 4 and has stepped over into retirement. He wanted to share with you all: “It’s been a pleasure to serve. I will miss you all, and you remain in my prayers.”

Tom and Hanna, thank you for your fruitful service in this community. You will be missed!

We are evaluating our current needs and will likely be posting some job openings soon.

While change is always a part of parish life, we step forward in joyful confidence and trust, knowing we are guided by the Lord of Love whose providence is unfailing.

Sacred Heart of Jesus, we trust in you!

~Fr. John Rumpza, Parochial Administrator