From The Pastors Desk
Dear Parishioners
We are quickly approaching the end of October! Time just seems to be flying right by. It is my hope and prayer that each of you have been able to begin this Fall season with rejuvenation, most especially as we gear up for a busy yet fruitful upcoming weeks here at the parish. I continue to give thanks to the Lord for the may blessings and graces that he has bestowed upon out parish community. We pray that during these last few days of October, dedicated to our Blessed Mother, we will continue to be heralds of the Good News, promoting God’s love and peace throughout our world. Today’s second reading from St. Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians reminds us that all we do is a labor of love. Love should be the underlying reason for all that we do as a community. Love for the church, love for the community, love for God and love for one another.
2023 Annual Catholic Appeal
I thank all of you who have generously contributed to this year’s Annual Catholic Appeal. As you know our goal for the appeal is $63,586. We have pledged over $50,000 thus far! Thank you for your prayers, support and generosity.
School of Faith Formation Registration
New registration and re-registration for our parish school of faith formation has begun. Children who need receiving the Sacraments of Initiation must register their children for faith formation classes. Registration fee is $55 per child. You may register online via our parish website or pick up a registration form at the parish office. Classes have begun.
All Soul’s Day Remembrance
As we approach the month of November, we will remember in a special way all those who have died. There are special All Soul’s Mass remembrance envelopes available at each of the three churches. These envelopes will be placed on the altars of each of the three churches throughout the month of November. You may place your envelope with the offering in the collection basket at Mass or bring it to the parish office.
Parish Feast of St. Martin de Porres and Diaconate Ordination of Tobechukwu Offiah
As is the custom here at St. Martin de Porres, we will celebrate the feast day of our parish patron, St. Martin de Porres on Sunday, November 5 at Our Lady of Victory Church beginning at 10:15AM. Please note that there will not be a 9:00AM Mass at Holy Rosary Church and 11:30AM Mass at St. Peter Claver Church. We will have a 5:00PM Vigil Mass on November 4 at St. Peter Claver Church and a 7:30AM Mass on Sunday November 5 at Our Lady of Victory. In addition, we will celebrate the Diaconate ordination of our pastoral year seminarian, Tobechukwu Offiah. Tobe will preach for the first time as a Deacon for the parish Feast Day Mass on November 5. Immediately following the Mass there will be a reception in McGuinness Hall. All are invited to bring a dish to be shared. Please use the sign-up sheets located at the doors of each of the three churches.
Wishing you a blessed and peaceful week,
Father Alonzo Q. Cox
