Peace and all good!

In our Gospel today, Jesus gives the second prediction of his Passion, Death and Resurrection. Once again, the disciples do not understand what Jesus is talking about. And out of fear, they do not question him about it. Rather, the disciples argue about who’s the greatest and Jesus teaches them that those who wish to be first will be last and will serve others. The Lord then welcomes a little child and sees this little one as a sign of Jesus and his Father.

Well, we have returned from our 10-day Pilgrimage of the Franciscan Missions of California! It was truly a beautiful experience for all 40 of us on the journey. Our journey took us to Mission Dolores, Mission Santa Clara, Mission San Juan Bautista, Mission Carmel, Mission San Miguel, Mission San Luis Obispo, Mission Santa Barbara, Mission San Fernando Rey and the Basilica of Mission San Juan Capistrano. We also visited The National Shrine of St. Francis in San Francisco, St. Ignatius Church at USF, Christ the Light Cathedral in Oakland and Our Lady of the Angels Cathedral in Los Angeles. In a special way, you and all of your intentions were remembered at all of our Masses and prayers. Pilgrimages are meant to be spiritual journeys, educational and delightful opportunities to build lasting friendships. I believe all of this took place on this pilgrimage. Thank you too for praying for us!

As you see from today’s bulletin, we are preparing our annual St. Francis Celebrations. I invite you to come to our special Transitus Commemoration—the Passing of St.Francis, on October 3rd at 7:00 p.m. in the Old Mission. This is a very moving ceremony recalling the final hours of St. Francis life. Then, on October 4th, we celebrate with great joy the Feast of St. Francis with a glorious Mass in Serra Center at 7:00 p.m. followed by a festive reception in the Serra Gardens. And don’t forget to bring your pets for the Blessing of the Animals, October 6th at 10 a.m. in front of the Mission Church. Let us all join together for these beautiful celebrations of Our Holy Father, St. Francis of Assisi!

In closing, I officially welcome Mr. Angel Ibarra to our staff as the Director of Social Outreach and Advocacy! Please join us today after the 8, 10 and Noon Masses to welcome him in the Social Concerns Building. You can meet Angel and see the facility and have the opportunity to volunteer to help feed, clothe and visit the poor! Refreshments will be served. Welcome, Angel!

Love, Father Vince