A Word from Our Associate&  

     I heard recently that a woman from a Catholic church in another diocese was quoted as saying, "For some reason, I never leave the service on Sunday feeling good about myself."  From what I've heard, this happens to be a popular parish, but my heart, upon hearing this statement, was greatly saddened.  How often do we hear the message that we are so unconditionally and eternally loved by our heavenly Father?  Are we truly able to receive this message, and repeat it to ourselves?  I must admit that my own approach to Christianity is very idealistic:  for example, I sincerely hope that each person in this congregation could be a saint, including myself.  With that in mind, I hope that my homilies are not too challenging, or inadequately relaying the love our Lord has for you, the people of God, in his heart!
     You are so loved by God!  Many, if not most, of us feel at times unlovable, unworthy, shamed, or insecure.  We often focus on our shortcomings and failures.  Could we really stand to face ourselves in the mirror each day and say, "You are so loved by God?"  We need to receive the message of the Good News, that to God,  we are so desirable, beautiful, and a treasure beyond price.  One thing, which is a true and deep conversion offers, is an experience of the Holy Spirit.  This is such a sweet taste, a delight to the soul.  Knowing his abiding presence gives us an assurance that we are in God's favor as one who is chose, as a child of God.  In turn, our hearts become filled with this same love of God for others, and we can begin growing in the ability to see ourselves as God sees us:  "God saw everything he had made, and  indeed, it was very good" (Genesis 1:31).  We can be proud of our achievements, and celebrate the gifts, talents and good things we have done& even more, the goodness that we are!  How much does God love us?  One only has to extend his arms, as Christ did on the cross, and answer, "This much."  "For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life" (John 3:16).

     
-- Fr. Michael Becker

St. John's Nursery&
The nursery will not be supervised until we hire a new nursery supervisor.  Parents may use the space with their children during Mass.  We are currently seeking a new Nursery Supervisor for Sunday mornings.  Hours are 9:30am--12:30pm.  Qualifications include love of children, ability to coordinate volunteers, maintain safety of children and ensure a safe environment.  This could be a shared position.  For more information please contact Bob Mike @ 651-633-8333.

Are You or Someone You Know Interested In Joining the Catholic Faith?
These are the months during which we try to extend a special invitation to people who we might know who would be interested in being Baptized as a adult, receive Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist, renew and update themselves in understanding the Catholic Faith or join the Catholic Faith from another faith tradition.  If you know someone who is interested please invite them to give me a call or if you are interested call.  The group is getting formed for a new year.  RCIA which stands for Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is one of the most powerful experiences of God with a community of people growing, praying, encouraging, supporting and celebrating faith that you will ever have!  We always need sponsors too.  Give Mary Ann Zervas a call at 651-633-1540.

Bulletin Board&
"UN" CAMPING

Want the fun of camping--company of good friends, evenings around the campfire, swimming and just getting away to the great outdoors--without the hassle of tent, mats, wet ground, etc.?  Remember those good old days and summer camp!  We have reserved Camp Sally in Anoka County (near Wyoming, MN) for the weekend of August 4,5,6.  There are four bunk cabins (12 beds each), a dining cabin with kitchen, lake access, showers! Everyone is welcome!  There is even room for some tents if you prefer.  Cost $5/person per night.  Space is limited, please call for reservations/information--Mary Walus (763) 571-8199 or Connie McTavish (763) 571-74668

Music Notes&
Update to last January's Gwen Matthews Concert:  We are taking it on the road!  We will appearing at the Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota (about a 7 hour drive from here) on Wednesday evening, August 23.  Perhaps you'd consider a jaunt out there to join us!  (We promise the concert will be shorter this time.)  See Cheri Sykes for further details.