“Faith Renewed, Mission Sustained”

Dear Parishioners,

        Over the next few weeks, we will begin Faith Renewed, Mission Sustained, a parish offertory program focused on the mission we share as a parish community. We will reflect on three things: the mission of our parish, our personal commitment to that mission, and the gratitude we share for the many ways God is at work among us.

        Next weekend, we celebrate Mission Weekend. Before we talk about giving, I think we should first talk about mission. Why does our parish matter? Where is God working through this community? How is faith being renewed here? How do the people, ministries, and everyday moments of parish life sustain the Church's mission?

        The mission of our parish is lived out in many ways. We live it out when we gather for Mass. We live it out when we welcome a family. We live it out when a child learns to pray. We live it out when someone receives care during a difficult time. We live it out through our ministries, volunteers, faith formation programs, outreach, music, prayer, and the quiet service of parishioners who give their time and talent without seeking recognition.

        The readings for the Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time urge us to reflect on obedience and whether our actions match our words. In the Gospel, Jesus tells a parable about two sons: one who initially refuses his father’s request but later goes, and another who agrees but doesn't follow through. God values sincere, heartfelt change over superficial promises. True faith involves more than words; it requires ongoing dedication to working in the Lord’s vineyard. Saint Paul calls us to embrace Christ's humble, selfless mindset, who emptied himself to fulfill the Father's mission.

        This mission is evident in many ways here: volunteers arriving early to prepare for Mass, parishioners caring for grieving families, and our community welcoming newcomers and helping them feel at home. This first weekend gives us a moment to pause and remember that our parish is more than a building or a set of scheduled events. It is a vibrant community of faith where people meet Christ, deepen their faith, serve one another, and share the Gospel with the world.

         These readings encourage us to move beyond merely professing our faith and to actively support our shared mission. The vineyard Jesus mentions is not an abstract idea; it is our parish community, where we are called to dedicate our gifts, time, and resources to nurture God’s love. This program prompts us to reflect honestly on our stewardship and on whether our contributions truly affirm a sincere "yes" to Christ. By moving beyond complacency and embracing Christ's humility, we can keep our parish a vibrant place of hope and grace. Let us approach this season with renewed hearts and collective dedication, so that our faithful actions sustain St. Joseph Fullerton’s vital mission for generations.

        Next weekend, I will ask you to complete a short Mission Reflection Card. This is not a pledge card. This is not a financial commitment card. Today, we are simply asking you to reflect on where you see our parish's mission being lived out.

May the Lord renew our faith, strengthen our parish, and sustain the mission we share.