From the Desk of the Pastor September 25, 2005
All eight cylinders are running here at St. James and it is an exciting time of the year. All of our programs are in gear: our school is off to a great start; the School of Religion has returned with a record number of students; CYO basketball tryouts are on the move; of course a casual look at the large number of Parishioners that we welcome in the bulletin indicates the direction that the Parish census is going-up, up, up! Every few weeks we run a full page of Apostolate that can involve our parishioners. Twelve weekday Masses; 9 Sunday Masses, baptisms, funerals, weddings and the list just keeps on going. Who could not be proud of such a vibrant parish community dedicated to our Lord Jesus Christ. Did I mention that we spiritually service the Hospital, ER, Arms Acres, Putnam Rehabilitation Center and the County Prison?
A few reminders:
- Be On Time - Don't leave early - We are blessed with sufficient parking here at St. James and the Lake Church. Please be on time for Mass, which is before the celebrant enters the Church. Never leave the Church having just received Holy Communion. The congregation should disperse after you hear the words: "The Mass is ended, go in peace."
-Maintenance - Our buildings, churches and grounds get an immense amount of use this time of the year. Please clean up and pick up refuse and report anything broken and in need of repair to the Parish Office.
-Parking - Please be mindful of the Children, handicapped and elderly as you enter and leave the property. Please park in designated spots and not create your own.
-Bathrooms - It is still problematic that children are allowed to go to the lavatory unaccompanied. If a child seriously needs to go to the lavatory during Mass, select an unobtrusive time and walk the child. Both for their protection and the reverence of the Liturgy please follow this rule.
-Parish Registration - I am still shocked at how many families do not know that they need to register in the parish. This is done quite simply by stopping by the Parish Office and filling out a registration form. Please make every effort during the month to be sure that you are registered and your family information is current.
God bless you and let us continue to work and pray for each other.
Father Anthony Domenic Sorgie