Dear Parishioners,

This weekend, we return to the regular ordinary cycle of Sunday readings. We witness Jesus sending forth 72 others in pairs – so 36 pairs going out to different towns to spread the Gospel message. They are told to travel lightly yet full of humility and peace. They return rejoicing because of the way God works in their evangelization efforts. He reminds them not to rejoice in power but rather to strive for humble personal holiness and a commitment to God's will.

The month of July is one of the hottest here in the desert, and life slows down. We spend more time indoors, and it's an excellent opportunity to catch up on things, clean, and organize. It is also a time to catch up on the spiritual life and refresh yourselves in the Lord. Our parish subscription to FORMED is an excellent way to do that by watching a movie or series. Find a Bible study or enrichment course that you can complete at home individually, as a couple, or as a family. Perhaps consider finding a friend and doing so as a pair, just like the disciples in the Gospel this weekend. We don't grow if we don't try. Get signed up and enjoy the numerous opportunities available through the FORMED application.

I am on my summer break in Michigan. I will be spending time with my mother and family. It's always beneficial to relax and refresh. I love spending time at the lake, watering plants, cooking, reading, visiting with friends, enjoying sunsets on the east shore and discovering unique sites to visit.

I will continue to do the mid-week check-in from Michigan so you can enjoy a bit of green once a week. I am grateful for this time with my family. Over the summer months, we are working on several projects to update the parish campus, including new roofs on the Parish Center, following the repair of the parapets, and on the Administration Building.

We are having a new shade cover installed over the play area for our young people, with plans for additional improvements. The rectory is now approved by the city, so it's time to obtain permits and deploy the various contractors to get the project underway. We plan to celebrate this milestone in the Fall to mark this step on our journey to an on-site rectory. Of course, all of this is made possible by your regular and generous support of the parish's mission. We do amazing things together in Christ.

Peace and hope always in Him,

Fr. Fred

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