We are now on our third week back at full capacity, and it is indeed a reason to rejoice as we have seen steady increase in the numbers of parishioners and guests joining us for the liturgies. This is particularly meaningful and entirely “new” to me here at Saint Raymond’s – seeing most of you in person, to meet you and perhaps shake your hands or hug you for the first time! What a joy.
As a parish community blessed through the years, we have always been committed to support the vision of the Diocese of Oakland “to know Christ better and to make Him better known”. Significantly, we envision a dynamic, ever growing and constantly evolving community which desires to live out the missionary faith planted in our hearts by Jesus Christ, the S-O-W-E-R, through Stewardship (evangelization), Outreach (service), Worship (liturgy), Engagement (hospitality), and Religious Education (faith formation).
After 15 months of being here at Saint Raymond’s – learning and (hopefully!) growing – I have always desired to listen, and yet as you well know, there is still a lot of that I must learn. Thank you for your patience.
Particularly at a time when we all felt the effects of the pandemic – spiritually, emotionally, physically and financially – I’d like to take this opportunity to present to all of you highlights of your giving, collaboration and fidelity to the mission of Church entrusted to our charge. Special thanks to our Finance Council for putting these numbers together, and to all of you for your unwavering support as reflected in the attached summary. We are only able to do what we have set out to accomplish through your faithful stewardship!
Sono semipro grate,
Father Erick
(For 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time)