As we work to get back to some sense of normal, we have a number of opportunities coming up to celebrate our family of St. Bernard of Clairvaux. Of course we come together to celebrate Eucharist, the presence of Christ among us, every week, but social time together is also important.

Next month we will begin coffee and donuts after mass! Our KofC Golf Tournament is September 11. We will celebrate the feast of Padre Pio on Sunday, September 26, at 11:00am Mass with Bishop Olmsted and a brunch to follow. The next Saturday evening, October 2, is our Oktoberfest– yes, it is back after the pandemic year.

As vacations are over and schools have begun, you will also see our parish bloom and come to life again. Get ready, because things are starting to get moving already.

We have been registering for religious education classes for our children and for Jr. High and High School youth programs. At the end of the month we will be hosting another Blood Drive and next month we begin our Wednesday exposition and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Also next month is our Knights of Columbus Gold Tournament and our celebration of the Feast of St. Pius of Pietrelcina (Padre Pio) with Bishop Olmsted.

OK, I admit, I have been watching the Olympics occasionally. Usually I just check to see what is on and watch if I am interested. The other I suddenly became aware of how many athletes were referencing God before or after their event. Yes, some made the sign of the cross, others just pointed up (to God), and there were others. I then became aware of how many were wearing crosses or crucifixes during their event.

I was in Texas recently preaching for Nuestros Pequenos Hermanos and the parish had an interesting sign in the vestibule of the church, it read:

You are entering a place of worship to God, please dress appropriately and practice quiet.

I know we live in the desert, but Texas is also hot and humid. I don’t believe in dress codes for church, but it is nice to be reminded of where we are and why we are here. There are always parishioners who comment to me about dress and actions in the church.

It is August and I know that many of you will be returning from vacations; it is wonderful to have you back! Please remember that Covid numbers are still high and our children and some adults are still vulnerable: masks are optional for those vaccinated and it is still a good idea to physical distance. Please know that the staff and I are watching the numbers closely.