6 July 2025#boastinthelord
Joyfully boasting in the works of the Lord are all over the readings today. Isaiah speaks tender words about the flourishing of faith, our psalmist praises all the good works of the Lord, Paul writes that his work is done only because of the grace of Jesus, and the disciples are astounded at the works they accomplished in Jesus’ name. So, let me joyfully boast in the works of the Lord here in our own little faith community:
Our preschool/school: Last year our Catholic school had over 200 students who were formed in Spirituality, Excellence, Academics and Service. Registration for this year is still open and we can’t wait to see what the Lord has planned!
Baptisms: Parents presented 39 souls for baptism last year and will top that this year.
Children’s Liturgy of the Word: Mr. and Mrs. Brenny had anywhere from 6 to 26 pint-sized kiddos hearing the word of God in pint-sized words.
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd: My personal favorite way for children to learn about Jesus, the Mass and all sorts of Catholic things, formed 18 kiddos.
First Communions: Jesus is smiling and so are we, as 26 souls received Holy Communion for the first time this year.
Confirmation: 43 souls had their baptismal gifts/fruits of the Holy Spirit activated; whether or not they use these gifts is totally up to them. Sacraments give us the grace and gifts we need to live a Christ-centered life… if you don’t want a Christ-centered life then the gifts/grace sit unopened.
Adult Confirmation/OCIA: When adults want to “become Catholic,” we ask a number of questions to see if they should make a full study of Catholicism (OCIA) or just need a refresher course (Adult Confirmation). When they complete their course of study, we allow them to make their profession of faith and/or Confirmation during a Mass of their choosing. We’ve had 5 souls become Catholic this year, 2 young women who are almost there, and 4 setting out on their journey.
Marriages: The union of two souls before Christ is a joyful sight to behold, and we beheld 10 of them last year.
Funerals: We had some very heavy hearts mixed with the joy of what-may-come this year. 40 souls went to their mercy-and-judgement seat before Jesus and received their just reward.
Young Family Ministries: Most of our book bags disappear before Sunday Masses these days and we couldn’t be happier. Our future looks bright (and joyfully noisy!).
Evangelical Catholic (EC): We’ve trained 64 people to go deeper with the Lord, develop new prayer habits, and discern what the Lord is calling them to do [apostolate] in their circle of influence.
And there’s also the outreach we have at Regina/Augustana, Sharing & Caring Hands, Hastings Family Services, and the Appalachia Project! There’s also the Catechetical Institute, The Watchmen, The Kingsmen, St. Zelie’s, Pints & Podcasts, Catholic Book & Movie Club, and more! We have a lot going on at St. Elizabeth’s, all thanks be to Jesus… and good people who are His hands and feet. We are mission-driven and evangelization-focused. It’s an exciting time to be in our parish! #boastintheLord