Dear Friends in Christ,

In the course of these challenging times, many people may find it difficult to remain hopeful. The headlines of one disaster after another, along with the international threats by some nations and some groups, continue to capture the world's attention. Many leaders and politicians here in the United States, as well as abroad, are faced with what appears to be insurmountable circumstances that are affecting some of the most fundamental building blocks of society. The dream of the "good life" has been wiped away for many who are faced with decaying systems that can no longer fulfill what they once promised. From the vexing oil leak in the gulf, states and nations in serious debt, economies on the verge of decline, threats of war in Korea, the loss of loved ones in the Middle East and extremist groups who terrorize, it is not surprising that many people tend to be mesmerized by such ongoing "bad news" and sense a loss of hope.

However, in the letter to the Romans, people of faith are given reason to have hope regardless of their circumstances.

"Brothers and sisters: Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith to this grace in which we stand, and we boast in hope of the glory of God. Not only that, but we even boast of our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance, and endurance, proven character, and proven character, hope, and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us."

On this feast of the "Most Holy Trinity", God is teaching us that our greatest strength can and will always be found in the relationships that we have with one another and with God. God is a "Trinity" of relationship, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, which is rooted in and bound in love. God is love itself! When the focus of one's life is rooted in and bound in love with others and with God, there is no fear or power or difficulty that cannot be overcome.

I pray that you will be open to the power of God's transforming love rather than the fear of the circumstances that may be surrounding you. Proverbs reminds us that it is the wise man and wise woman who yearn to be "possessed" by God. Jesus promised all who believe that faith in God will never lead to darkness. He said, "the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth." For it is the truth of God's love that will set a person free from fear and allow them who put their faith in the love of God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Sincerely yours in Christ,
Father Tarantino
Pastor