All Souls & Our Sacred Mandate

11-02-2025Weekly ReflectionFr. Fred Adamson

Dear Parishioners,

This weekend, our parish turns its focus to Mission Engagement, a time to renew our awareness of the great call entrusted to every Christian: to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to the world. Providentially, this weekend also marks the Solemnity of All Souls, when we pray for all who have gone before us and commend them to the mercy and love of God. It is a beautiful reminder that the mission of the Church is the salvation of souls, helping every person encounter the life-giving love of Christ that leads to eternal communion with God.

Jesus gives us the mission clearly: "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). This command is not for a few-it belongs to all of us. Each baptized person is called to this sacred mandate. The heart of our faith is not simply to receive Christ, but to share Him, through our words, our witness, and our way of life.

The first step in this mission begins with personal holiness, allowing the love of Jesus to transform us from within. When we know His saving mercy, we become credible witnesses of that same mercy in our families, workplaces, and community. Faith is not lived in isolation; it finds its home in the community of believers, where we are nourished by the Eucharist, strengthened by the other Sacraments, and supported by one another as the mystical Body of Christ.

Here at Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, we are blessed to see this mission come alive in so many ways, through those entering the Church, families deepening their faith, and parishioners serving others with love and generosity. This is a community of encounter, where Christ's presence is real and shared. At the heart of all we do is this truth: Jesus Christ is our Savior, the source of all that is good, true, and beautiful. He alone satisfies the restless longing of every human heart.

As your pastor, I invite you to renew your participation in this mission. Come to Mass with intention and joy. Recommit yourself to prayer and the Sacraments. Learn more about the richness of our Catholic faith. Engage in service and outreach. Let your home be a place where faith is lived and shared. Each act of love, each prayer, each moment of generosity becomes a way we bring Christ to others.

I am deeply grateful for the faith, commitment, service and support you show for our parish mission. The generosity of so many; your time, your prayer, your financial stewardship, makes it possible for Saint Bernard of Clairvaux Parish to shine as a beacon of God's love to our community and beyond.

As we focus on Mission Engagement, I ask you to reflect: How am I helping my parish fulfill Christ's mandate? Each of us has a role in building up the Body of Christ and bringing souls closer to Him. Together, we keep the mission alive and vibrant, proclaiming with our lives that the love of Jesus is real, powerful, and for everyone.

From our place at the foothills of the McDowell mountains, may we continue to be a light for the world, drawing others to the warmth of God's mercy. Together in Christ, we truly make a difference.

Peace and Blessings in Him,

Fr. Fred

P.S. I'm happy to share some exciting news - we have begun taking concrete steps toward building our new parish rectory! The site has now been surveyed and staked, marking the beginning of this important phase in creating a home for the priests who serve our parish community. Thank you for your continued support, generosity, and prayers that are helping make this vision a reality. May God bless you abundantly for your faith and partnership in this good work.