Blessed Holy Triduum! Happy Easter!

“I know for certain, that before I was humbled I was like a stone lying in deep mire, and he that is mighty came and in his mercy raised me up and, indeed, lifted me high up and placed me on top of the wall. And from there I ought to shout out in gratitude to the Lord for his great favors in this world and for ever, that the mind of man cannot measure.”

― St. Patrick, The Confession of Saint Patrick

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Blessed Holy Triduum! Religious Life is a privilege and a gift to the entire Church as it enriches the community with spirituality, charisms and apostolates that are life-giving. I would like to share with you a few events that have happened since we lasted visited. Since February 2nd, there have been a number of gatherings that have been inspiring.

On February 6, the Serra Club in the Diocese, including Serra Clubs of Central Phoenix, the East and the West Valley organized and hosted a lovely dinner for their annual Religious Appreciation Night. About 90 Religious Sisters and Brothers attended this dinner with Serrans and Auxiliary Bishop Eduardo Nevares. A great time was had by all!

Sr. Christopher Malcovski, OSBM

Sr. Maria Crucis Garcia, RSM and Sr. B.J. LeTourneau, SNDdN

The Jubilarians celebrating 25-75 Years of Religious Life were honored. They are a gift!

On Saturday, May 12, we had a Lenten Day of Prayer for Religious Brothers and Sisters at St. John the Baptist Mission Church in Laveen with our new Franciscan Friars of the Holy Spirit. The Day of Prayer was led by Fr. Brad LePage, the superior of this new community. It was called, “The Face of Mercy”, and he gave two conferences. The first was on the Year of Mercy declared by Pope Francis, and the second was on how to be merciful and forgive.

The bright sun and beautiful surroundings were refreshing. It was renewing and peaceful.

I recommend for you to visit St. John the Baptist in Laveen whenever you have a chance.