Today’s Gospel invites us to trust in Christ’s promise of eternal life. Jesus tells us that he is going to prepare a place for us in his Father’s house. Jesus also tells us that he is the way to eternal life. This is the promise we are given at Baptism: we die and rise with Jesus Christ. Jesus wants us to be comforted by his words to us. As I face the imminent death of my father, this Gospel gives me hope and strength to say good-bye to my dad, knowing he is going to be with our loving God.

I want to give you an update on my father. Two weeks ago my dad stopped his chemotherapy treatments and as of this past Tuesday, he has been under the care of Hospice in him home. We are being told he has less than a week to live. He is very comfortable and the medication he is taking is taking away his pain. I am going home to Baltimore on Monday and will be staying down with him and my family. Because I will be away, Larry Neumark and I have cancelled the Seder Dinner for this year. Please keep my dad and my family in your prayers. Thank you for your support and prayers as my family and I prepare to celebrate our father’s entrance into eternal life.

READING OF THE IRAQ WAR DEAD: Every Tuesday, from 12:15 PM - 12:30 PM at the Clocktower, there will be a reading of the names of those who have died in the Iraq War. This is one way we can remember and keep in prayer all those who have died in this war. I invite you to join us when you can. If you would like to volunteer to be a reader, please let me know.

FOOD AND CLOTHING DONATIONS: There is a BASKET in the back of the Chapel for food donations for the needy of our community. When you are shopping, consider getting a nonperishable food item and bring it with you to Mass to place in our food basket. If you have any old clothing that is clean and in good condition that you wish to donate, please bring it to the Osborne Newman Center and place it in the downstairs lounge. These are two ways we can serve those in need in our area.