Dear Parishioners,

Greetings on the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity. Today we celebrate one of the great mysteries of our Catholic faith: that God has revealed Himself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; one God in three distinct Persons. This feast invites us not only to reflect upon a doctrine of the Church, but also to enter more deeply into the very life of God. In His very essence, God is communion, relationship, and perfect love.

The love shared between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is not distant from us; rather, it is the love into which we have been baptized and called to live each day. Through prayer, worship, and charity, we participate in the life of the Trinity itself. It is with gratitude and awe that we proclaim: "O Most Holy Trinity, undivided Unity; Holy God, mighty God, God immortal, be adored!"

As part of the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops is reconsecrating our nation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. You are invited to join in a special Novena from June 3-11, culminating in a Mass celebrated by the bishops during their spring assembly in Orlando, Florida. The Mass on June 11 will also be livestreamed. The Diocese of Phoenix has prepared helpful resources, and a link may be found on our parish website. This novena may be prayed at any time as we prepare to celebrate 250 years of freedom and give thanks for the blessings God has bestowed upon our nation. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus guide and protect our country. God bless America.

As we enter the month of June, we also look forward to our Music Theater Camp, which begins this week and concludes with a performance of American Ideal on Friday evening at 7:00 p.m. I continue to be amazed by how much these young people accomplish in just one week and by the joy and talent they share through their performance. I encourage all parishioners to attend and support these wonderful young people. An ice cream social will follow the performance, providing a wonderful opportunity for fellowship and community.

As you read this, I am traveling in Italy - beginning in Bari, journeying through Sicily and Naples, and eventually returning to Bari. Along the way I hope to experience the beauty, history, and deep faith of Southern Italy. I will try to post daily reflections and photos on Facebook, along with a Wednesday midweek check-in from wherever we may be that day. Please know that I am praying for all of us, that our parish community may continue to grow closer to the Lord and to His unfathomable mercy and love.

I will miss greeting you at the church doors on Saturday evenings and Sunday mornings. Please pray for me and my fellow travelers and be assured of our prayers for the parish family of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux.

Peace and joy in the Holy Trinity - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

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