Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Dear Parishioners,
 
Today we mark the Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time as we celebrate the Lord’s Day. I am celebrating the Lord’s Day today in Jerusalem and in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. It is in this church that Calvary, the place of Jesus’ crucifixion is located, and the Tomb of Christ is also found. I am remembering all of you, my dear people of Rockaway, as I pray before these sacred places which were the scenes of our salvation.
 
The Gospel Acclamation which we sing at today’s liturgy is: “ The people who sit in darkness have seen a great light; on those dwelling in a land overshadowed by death, a light has arisen.” The Holy Resurrection of our Lord, God and Savior Jesus Christ has dispelled the darkness of death. The bright and eternal light of Christ now shines upon all those who trust in Him, both the living and the dead. What a privilege to be here, in the place where death was defeated on that first Easter Sunday. This Easter victory is celebrated by us in Rockaway every first day of the week, on Sunday - the Lord’s Day, and over one billion Christians around the world join us in doing so. More about the Holy Land when I come home on Wednesday.
 
Today we begin the start of CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK. The theme for this year’s observance is: “Learn, Serve, Lead, Succeed.” Here in Rockaway we are blessed to have a Catholic School in our community, DIVINE MERCY ACADEMY. This school provides the best in Catholic education from preschool 3 to grade 8 boasting of an excellent faculty, current technology, extracurricular activities, and so much more. Most especially is the daily surrounding of academics with Christian faith and values which forms our students in ways which other schools cannot compete. The best and the finest are found in Catholic education and I invite all parents of our parish to investigate what we have to offer at Divine Mercy Academy. If you want the best for your child, contact our principal, Mrs. Ann Mitchell (973.627.6003) who will be happy to give you a tour of the facility and answer your questions.
 
Our children are a treasure for which we must provide the very best in faith based education. In addition to encouraging parents to investigate Catholic schools I also encourage you to enroll your teens in the TRUE LOVE WAITS PROGRAM which begins this week at Saint Cecilia Church for parishioners of both Sacred Heart of Jesus and Saint Cecilia Churches. This chastity program is one which all parents should guide their young people to attend which can save them from disaster.
 
Mom and Dad, both” Catholic Schools Week” and “True Love Waits” should not be overlooked by you! I commend both of them to you for serious consideration as you fulfill your duties as Christian parents.
 
Prayers and best wishes from the Holy Land!
 
Father Zig