As I reflect on the Gospel reading of today, which tells the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000, I am struck by the power of faith and the abundance that comes from sharing what we have with others. Jesus took a few loaves of bread and fish and was able to feed a multitude of people, showing us that when we trust in God’s provision, miracles can happen.
I know that I am being called to share the gifts I have, though they may seem inadequate compared to the great mission I’ve been entrusted with. I trust God’s goodness and generosity to supply whatever is lacking! I am excited to share with you today about my new role as the pastor of St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Parish. It is a great honor to be entrusted with this responsibility, and I am eager to see what God has in store for us on this great journey.
In many ways, the message of today’s Gospel is a reflection of the challenges that lie ahead for both my Congregation as well as St. Ignatius of Loyola Parish. For the past 100 years, the community of St. Ignatius has been building upon the foundation of the Jesuit tradition. With the arrival of the Congregation of Saint John, the Parish will embark upon a new era, one that comes with the offer to encounter “another Consoler.” May our Lord grant us the grace and wisdom of St. John the Apostle, our father, to bear witness to this same Spirit. Jesus said to his disciples at the Last Supper, “I tell you the truth: it is good for you that I go away. If I do not go, the Comforter cannot come, but if I go I will send Him to you.”
I recognize that it is never easy to say goodbye – and difficult to welcome new and unexpected persons. There will be some who will want everything to remain exactly as it is, but that is impossible. I am confident that if we approach this new chapter in the story of St. Ignatius Parish with the same spirit of generosity and compassion that Jesus demonstrated in feeding the 5,000, we will be able to continue to grow ever stronger and more vibrant.
I am humbled by the opportunity to be a part of this community and to lead us forward in faith. With God’s grace and the willingness to share our gifts with one another, anything is possible.
May God continue to bless you, your community and the parishioners of St. Ignatius Church!