Our Gospel today tells the story of Zacchaeus, the tax collector turned saint! In Jesus’ day tax collectors were a despised lot. They worked for the Romans, the Gentile power who ruled their land. Tax collectors would supplement their income with a surcharge. This despised man was so eager to see Jesus that he climbed a tree to get a better look as Jesus walked by. However, Jesus stopped and invited himself to dinner at the home of this man. And what a change in Zacchaeus as a result! We ask: “How am I changed by Jesus’ presence with me?”

Our Evening with the Friars event is rapidly approaching on November 15th. This will be a wonderful event that will help support our parish and also a Franciscan student at our theology school. You will be feted to a delicious “Taste of Italy” which features regional foods from six regions of Italy. There will be Italian folk dancing and a chance to bid on some awesome prizes. Plus take your chance on some great raffle items including a beautiful porcelain statue of the risen Lord by Lladro, the noted Spanish artist and a $500 gift card for Southwest Airlines! Get your tickets today and enjoy a fabulous evening and support your parish at the same time!

Next Sunday, our parish will honor all veterans and Military service members and their families at a lovely breakfast after the 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. Masses in St. Michael’s Court (inside the Parish Center). Veterans and donations are welcomed from all others in attendance. Please come to show your appreciation for these men and women of service to our country.

Last weekend, Mr. Angel Ibarra spoke at the Masses about a “Peru Mission Trip”. Perhaps God is calling you to bring your talents and loving support to the poor in this way. You are invited to find out more about this mission to Peru on November 7th in the Loretto house. See the bulletin for more details. What an inspiring way to put “Matthew 25” into practice!

The month of November is dedicated to a remembrance of the faithful departed. We invite you to list the names of the dead in our beautiful Book of the Names of the Dead near the paschal candle. Also, the All Souls envelopes will be placed on the altar for special remembrance at each Mass we celebrate this month. May the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen.

Love, Fr. Vince