From Our Pastor: Called to the Harvest

In the first reading from Exodus, God reminds His people that they are chosen—not because of their own greatness, but because of His love and covenant. He calls them to be “a kingdom of priests, a holy nation,” set apart to reflect His presence in the world.

In the Gospel, Jesus looks upon the crowds with compassion because they are “troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd.” His response is not merely to feel sorry for them but to send laborers into the harvest. So let us pray specifically for more priests. That same call extends to all of us today as well. Through our baptism, we share in Christ’s mission to bring His love, mercy, and truth to those around us. The harvest remains abundant, and the Lord continues to invite each of us to be His hands, His voice, and His compassionate presence in a world that longs for hope.

The last couple weeks several of our priests lost their dads. Bishop Carl Kemme’s dad, Donald. Fr. Jeff Goeckner’s dad, Harold. Fr. Michael Friedel’s dad, Joseph. Please pray for all of them, and their priest sons, and the families who love them.

My vacation to the Caribbean was truly beautiful and relaxing. Four days was definitely not enough. It was just too short! I can’t thank my friends from Granite City enough for taking me.

Father Ken loved his priest retreat this last week. He said it was renewing.

Totus Tuus was a huge success this week. Thank you to Grant Wilson and Gina Bergman for their work in coordinating this between us and St. Peter’s parish.

Thank you to all who made the parish picnic happen. We are looking forward to a great event this weekend. Remember this isn’t just a money maker, but a way to be hospitable and welcome someone to the parish who may never come here otherwise!

Father Arisman