Sunday, May 20, 2007

Rectory Rennovations & Other Happenings - MAY 20, 2007

On May 7th a delegation from the parish presented plans to the Building Commission of the Diocese for the rectory/office project. We are awaiting their approval before we put the various projects out to bid. In short, we are looking at a new kitchen, better offices for the priests and office workers, and a bigger dining area. Last year’s successful auction, the monthly building and maintenance collection and parish reserves make this project fiscally feasible. More details will be forthcoming as we move forward.

A big thank you to all who made Lukasz’s diaconate ordination so beautiful. The choir, environment and reception committees did an outstanding job in coordinating the event.

The institution of communion under both species goes well. It will take a few more weeks to improve the flow of communion. Thanks especially to our Eucharistic Ministers who are working overtime these weekends.

Fr. Bob Hawkins - MAY 20, 2007

Saturday, May 12, 2007

How I prepare my homilies - MAY 12, 2007


In last Sunday’s paper there was an article about how preachers prepare their homilies. I thought you might like to know the process I use. For 15 years I have met every 2 weeks with Fr. Joseph Creedon and Fr. Jack Heaney. We do some preparing ahead of time and then share our insights about the readings. I use various resources such as Connections, Celebrations, Good News. These are all publications with good ideas. On late Friday afternoon and early Saturday morning I take all the data from our study group and begin to craft the homily for the week. I try to be aware of what’s going on in the parish and in the world. The word of God is so often fleshed out in the events of our life. I then try to make a connection between our human experiences and what God’s word means to us today.

This weekend Luke Willenberg is to be ordained a deacon. I pray that as he ponders God’s word he will bring that word effectively into people’s lives. All of us are so proud of Luke and feel honored to have played a part in his formation for ordination.


Fr. Bob Hawkins - MAY 12, 2007