Dear Friends,

​

Welcome back to all who are returning from summer adventures and to those who are new to St. Paul’s, visitors included.  We are so happy that you are with us to offer praise to Almighty God and to support one another in our Catholic lives together. Praised be Jesus Christ.

​

With that, I am honored also to welcome Bishop Robert Barron who is with us at St. Paul’s this Sunday, September 17, to celebrate the 11:00 Mass of the Holy Spirit, asking God’s blessing on the academic year at Harvard University and St. Paul’s Choir School. The Mass will be followed by a reception in DiGiovanni Hall. Bishop Barron is also delivering a lecture at Memorial Church in Harvard Yard at 4:00 Sunday afternoon, sponsored by our own Harvard Catholic Forum. Bishop Barron is the founder of Word on Fire Catholic Ministries and an important voice internationally in the mission of spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Please note that there is free parking for these events available at the Broadway Street Garage, just a 10-minute walk from the Mass and lecture.

​

Last week, a number of parishioners attended the Celebration of the Priesthood dinner at the Seaport.  It is the largest annual fundraiser in New England, regularly attracting well over 1,200 people. We were so happy that our Choir School was invited to sing at the opening of the evening’s festivities. Thanks to all who contributed to last week’s collection for the Clergy Fund Trust.

​

Our Choir School, the only Catholic Boys Choir School in the USA, began classes last week. This is a timely reminder that if you know any boys from grades 3-8 who would benefit from our incredible program, with its music, faith, and classical education-based curriculum, it is not too late to apply; we often accept students who have newly arrived in the area.  Be sure to pass the word.

​

Our renowned RCIA program for adults seeking entrance into the Catholic Church, along with adults seeking the Sacrament of Confirmation, is gearing up for another inspiring year, starting September 23; we already have more than 30 people signed up! I would also encourage parents and guardians to register their children for Religious Education (starting this weekend, September 17) and for High School Confirmation (beginning September 24.) The earlier we have this information, the better prepared we can be. We have excellent programs here with dedicated directors, for which I am most grateful.

​

As announced, this weekend the second collection is for the Evangelization and Outreach Programs of our parish, including RCIA and communications. Many thanks for all your generosity.

The Church in the United States has embarked on a Eucharistic Revival, helping all to appreciate and love the gift of the Eucharist (as we try to do so faithfully here at St. Paul’s.)  I am grateful to the young professionals in our parish who collected funds to make available Bishop Barron’s book on the Eucharist. If you act quickly, you may still find one in the vestibule!

​

And looking ahead, mark off the evening of Saturday, September 30 when we will celebrate our annual Oktoberfest, always a wunderbar night!

​

God bless you,

Fr. Kelly