Dear Friends of Carmel Mission,
As we approach a New Year, many of us will be thinking about adopting a New Year resolution.
I’m asking that you prayerfully consider adopting the phrase: Put my Parish First!
We are all impacted by what happens in the universal church, but most of us live out our faith in our parish community, where we come together to pray and worship, get involved in one or more of our many parish ministries and basically draw inspiration from others who give so generously of their time, talents and treasure.
Someone once said that when it comes to Implementing change, our Catholic Church usually arrives some twenty years too late – and breathless!
The Holy Spirit has guided our Church through many difficulties throughout her history. Our Savior has assured us that goodness will overcome evil, and each of us is called to play a part in letting in the light where darkness now exists.
As we begin this New Year together, I’m requesting that you might consider putting your parish first. Please play your part in restoring what is good and worthy of restoration, preserving intact the true story of St. Junipero and his colleagues, and making your personal contribution to ensuring that our beautiful Carmel Mission is a place of welcome for our pilgrims, who come from all parts of our world.
It was inspiring for me and my fellow clergy to see so many people in attendance for our Christmas masses and Carol singing.
People came for many different and all good reasons and the rain did not dampen their joyful spirits.
I thank you for your great generosity and your selfless stewardship to Carmel Mission, and I wish you and your loved ones New Year blessings of good health and great happiness.
Always Forward…
Fr. Paul
Pastor at Carmel Mission