FROM THE PASTOR'S DESK
Last Sunday, at the Holy Name Communion Breakfast, the invited
speaker, a convert to Catholicism, spoke of his faith journey.
The breakfast audience was spellbound by Steve. There was not
a cough, noise, or sneeze. His story was compelling, sincere,
and he told it well.
What so impressed me about Steve's talk was his consistent and
determined desire to SEEK AND FIND GOD in the living of his Faith.
I think that many of us who were born into our Faith, take so
much for granted. How often do we really ask ourselves if we have,
indeed, FOUND GOD in our Faith. Sometimes we reject the constraints
and obligations of our Faith. We belong to a particular Faith
Community (parish) because we like the building; it's close to
home; we like (or dislike) a priest; our native language and customs
arc spoken here; "no one bothers me here" But are we
really SEEKING GOD here; can we find him here: can we ever be
all that we are called to be "in the faith of our birth -or
choice." Do we challenge ourselves with such questions?
It was so exciting to listen as one man spoke of his determination,
his efforts, his fears; and as he spoke of the inner peace that
is now a part of his life.
Father Alex B. Cymermam, OFM Conv., Pastor
Saint John Kanty
Clifton, New Jersey
Dear Steve,
On behalf of all The Servants, I thank you for sharing your journey
with and toward God with us last Tuesday evening. Even though
we, in the Charismatic Renewal, are privileged to hear to many
witnesses to the power of God to change hearts and lives, each
story is unique. Your story, especially, brought such joy to all
of us It is a story of a true son coming home. Your soft and gentle
manner in sharing your love of the Lord and his Blessed Mother
was a blessing to us.
We praise God for the work he is doing among his chosen people.
We also affirm you in your ministry to reach out to his men. We
pray that the Holy Spirit will guide you and will guide other
to you that they too may come to know the love that God has for
them, to come into an intimate relationship with Jesus, that zeal
for the Father's House will consume them and that by Mary's hand
they may be led, one day, into the throne room of the Father,
there to live forever with Him.
Love in Christ,
Mary M. Frain Coordinator
The Servants of the Holy Cross Prayer
Dear Steve,
It is with a renewed sense of enthusiasm in faith, a jolt if you
will, that I write to thank you for your inspiring talk to our
H. N. S. I know I speak not only for myself, but for all who heard
you when I say I have a greater appreciation for the faith I was
born into. You, on the other hand, are a convert, who awakened
me to the gift I've had all my life All too often, many of us
"cradle Catholics" suffer spiritual amnesia until someone
such as yourself comes along to remind us of the cross and the
price that was paid for man and his salvation. Many have asked
when we might have you back. I'm sure they would love to hear
from you again, and so would I, especially in light of your most
recent event in your life since June. On behalf of Father Native,
the officers and members of Saint Lucy's H.N.S , may we extend
to you and your lovely wife. Carmen, an open invitation to take
part in our meetings any time you wish to.
Yours in the Brotherhood of Christ,
Vincent Pagano, President Saint Lucy's H.N.S.
Worthy Sir,
I write this letter because I feel that you have something
special to offer the Catholic Community. Over the years we have
hearkened to many orators at our council home.
At our social meeting of May 23rd, I feel something extraordinary
and distinctive took place. That night we heard the story of a
man who was lost and confused. A man who, despite of the odds
against him, searched for a meaning and found that meaning in
Jesus Christ. I, and many of my brother Knights, came away from
that meeting inspired. Your story propelled our faith to greater
heights. Although this meeting took place ten weeks ago, my brother
Knights still talk about the feeling they came away with in their
hearts. I would like to thank you for sharing your experiences
with us.
Please feel free to visit us any time. You have an open invitation.
Vivat Jesus,
Michael G. Maluchnik
Grand Knight, Knights of Columbus
St. Joseph the Carpenter Council, No. 3946
