Dear Parishioners,

It is hard to believe that we are already nearing the end of July. The summer seems to pass more quickly each year. Throughout these weeks, Jesus has been teaching us about the Kingdom of Heaven through simple yet powerful parables. This Sunday He compares the Kingdom to a treasure hidden in a field and to a pearl of great price. In both stories, the person joyfully sells everything in order to possess what has been discovered.

Jesus reminds us that life in His Kingdom is not simply one priority among many. Our relationship with Him is the greatest treasure we will ever receive. Faith is not an addition to our lives; it is the center of our lives. When Christ is at the center, everything else; our decisions, relationships, work, struggles, and joys, finds their proper meaning and perspective.

The world often measures success by wealth, accomplishments, influence, or possessions. Jesus invites us to measure life differently. Nothing compares with knowing Him and walking with Him. Of course, we do not learn this lesson all at once. It is something we discover more deeply throughout our lives as we continually return to prayer, the sacraments, and the quiet moments where the Lord reminds us of what truly matters.

I hope these summer months have provided opportunities for rest, renewal, and time with those you love. I am grateful for these weeks in Michigan, where I have been able to slow the pace a bit, enjoy the beauty of a Midwestern summer, spend time with family, read, pray, and simply be present to the Lord. Those moments remind me that some of God's greatest gifts are found not in extraordinary events but in the quiet blessings of ordinary life. Time with the Lord, family, friends, and the beauty of His creation are treasures that renew the heart and help us recognize His goodness in our everyday lives.

The Gospel invites each of us to ask an important question: What do I treasure most? Does what I value most lead me closer to the Kingdom of Heaven? Is Christ truly at the center of my life and my family? God does not ask us to withdraw from the world. Rather, He calls us to live within it as faithful disciples, allowing His grace to shape our hearts so that we may live with holiness, peace, and joy.

Here at Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, the rectory project continues to move forward. After completing the foundation, construction of the structure itself is now underway. It is exciting to watch the building begin to take shape after so much planning, prayer, and generosity. Thank you to everyone whose prayers and financial support have made this important project possible. It is another reminder of what can be accomplished when we work together for the good of our parish family.

As we enjoy these final days of July and prepare to welcome August, may we continue to seek the treasure that never fades, the Kingdom of Heaven, and allow Christ to remain the center of all we do.

Peace and blessings.

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