Pastor's Note

LOOKING BOTH WAYS
December 31st, 2006

We are taught at quite a young age that when we cross streets, we must look both ways. The same applies to ending a year.
Although we all look ahead with hope and best wishes for each other in the New Year, it is also necessary to look back at the year that is just ending.
I like to take a few minutes as each year ends, to page through my personal appointment book. As I read names of people I’ve met with, I find myself wondering how they are doing. Often I say prayers for them. Then I look at the meetings and events that took place. Often I am overwhelmed by all that has happened. Even more, I find myself appreciating the many ways in which people have reached out to one another and have responded to God’s call.
More than anything else, 2006 was a year of growth for Blessed John XXIII Parish. More than fifty percent of those who read this were not yet members of the parish as this year began. In my calendar, I made a little note at the end of April that we had reached 200 registered households. Now the number is near 400.
During our first full year as a parish we celebrated Confirmation at the cathedral and our first, First Holy Communion at Perrysburg High School. Remember the time last March, when Sunday Mass was at the DC Ranch because the high school was not available?
Socially, we had a wonderful ‘break the ice’ party in February and a very successful parish picnic in August. The various youth groups each had their own activities. The summer retreat with the Teen Team was extremely memorable.
The parish had its first Holy Week with Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter all at Perrysburg High School. Four persons joined the church through RCIA at the Easter Vigil.
In September we began having two Sunday morning Masses. Both have grown as we continue to attract many people. Various parish committees have developed, and we began a Pastoral Council in late August.
In October of this year the Diocese completed the purchase of land for the church. By the end of the year we organized a Capital Campaign team to address the need for raising money for our first building.
Of course, many other things happened during the year. Countless conversations took place. New friendships and relationships were developed.
Moments of inspired prayer and praise were there every week. Children and teenagers, not to mention adults, became excited about their faith.
Thank you, God, for a very fine year. Please be with us in the year we are about to enter.