Dear Friends in Christ,

This past week has certainly been memorable! On Tuesday, we all watched a historical event with the swearing in of our nation's new leader, President Barack Obama. On Thursday, we remembered the anniversary of Roe vs. Wade. This decision, which has brought about the death of millions of unborn children, was in stark contrast to the hope of a nation that was embraced so enthusiastically on Inauguration Day. On Saturday, in San Francisco, countless thousands of people from all walks of life, walked for the sake of the unborn at the 5th Annual Walk for Life. Again, in stark contrast to the unity and hopefulness of Tuesday, we walked together peacefully proclaiming that life is sacred while being sworn at and heckled by those who believe otherwise. Finally, this Sunday, the 25th, is the 40th Anniversary of the Vatican II, Decree on Ecumenism, Unitatis Redintegratio. This decree has provided the common language that has promoted dialogue with many of our Christian brothers and sisters in other denominations. The decree states, "The restoration of unity among all Christians is one of the principal concerns of the Second Vatican Council. Christ the Lord founded one Church and one Church only." As aforementioned, this was really "some week."

My friends, the Word of God reaffirms the call to be united in faith and purpose for the sake of what is correct and righteous. Such a unity requires our ability to distinguish between worldly rhetoric and Divine instruction. St. Paul reminded his listeners, the Corinthians, "the time is running out." "For the world in its present form is passing away." Further, we hear Jesus telling us this "is the time of fulfillment. The Kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the Gospel." THIS message of change is a message to all. For Christ is calling each of us by name just as He called His disciples. Scripture tells us "they abandoned their nets and followed him."

God is asking each of us to abandon anything and everything that would keep us from clearly hearing His Word and responding to that Word. Therefore, I ask you to believe with me that both you and I are being called by God to bring into life the faith that we have been given through Christ our Lord. May the prayer of the Psalmist become a reality for each of us in our daily lives.

"Teach me your ways, O Lord. Your ways, O Lord, make known to me; teach me your path, Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my savior. Remember that your compassion, O Lord, and your love are from of old. In your kindness remember me, because of your goodness, O Lord. Good and upright is the Lord; thus he shows sinners the way. He guides the humble to justice and teaches the humble his way.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Fr. James Tarantino,
Pastor