Dear Parishioners,

November is upon us-and so before long the year will be over. All Saints Day  (observed Nov. 1st) reminds us that we are linked by the Communion of Saints to all who have ever gone before us or who will ever follow us in ages to come. All Souls Day (observed on Nov. 2nd) reminds us of the Solemnity of prayerfully remembering loved ones who have gone before us.

We can perhaps look back on the events thus far this year in order to recall the truly meaningful times with our loved ones that make this  (or any) year special. Reflecting on the life of a special Saint or remembering the love of a dear one who is now in Heaven helps us to live lives that are more open to the goodness of others.

What quality of a favorite saint can be seen in others who often touch our respective lives? How does that special person in our lives remind us of a favorite relative or friend who is now deceased?

My life as a priest would never be as joyful as it is if I chose not to make it a point to reflect upon and attempt to remember that which is important in the lives of others and as shared with me by so many. It is a great honor for me to have earned the trust of so many who themselves choose to confide in me over and over again.

So therefore, let's fully enjoy November, despite the colder weather. 

So therefore, let's fully enjoy each day spent in loving and respecting others. 

So therefore, with much gratitude for special People who are a part of our lives, the beautiful observance of Thanksgiving in late November takes on greater and greater significance the more we reflect upon Christ whom we meet in all who touch our lives daily.

Here are two letters I recently wrote to families mourning the loss of a loved one and families who are at home because of Covid 19 restrictions, the letters were addressed Dear Friends in Christ.

November is a month of remembrance of loved ones now in Heaven, held tightly in the Palm of God's Hand. How beautiful that these same loved ones are always a part of our hearts.

It was my honor to officiate at the funeral services of your loved ones whose funerals were celebrated between Nov. 1st 2019 and Oct. 31st, 2020.

I shall celebrate a private Mass during November in honor of all whom I have buried during the twelve month period cited above.

It is with much sadness that, because of Covid 19 restrictions, I cannot invite you and your families to this Mass. Please be assured of my thoughts and prayers for you at the tim private Mass and throughout November and the subsequent holiday season.

We are still struggling as a nation with the Covid 19 Pandemic. Subsequently, many people are eager to remain home. I miss all of you whom I have not seen at Mass over these past seven months.

I pray daily at Mass for your finest intentions of good health, spiritual prosperity, and continued peace of mind as we await a sense of normalcy, given these most difficult days.

Thank you for your continued love for and support of St. Teresa Parish. It is my honor to serve as your Pastor.

Yours in Christ, Father Jim

New Daily Prayer Intentions (for Facebook)

Sundays – Those Elected to Public Office

For those elected to public office that they will work to unite our country and understand that being called to serve in public office means working to will bring about a more just society.

Monday – For Struggling Businesses

That during this difficult economic time that business will be able to persevere, providing work for their employees and provide serve to our communities during this most challenging time.

Tuesday – For Ministers of the Gospel

For all who work to proclaim the Gospel that they will not loose heart and they will come to know the full love and guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Wednesday – For the Lonely and Depressed

May all those who find themselves alone and isolated during this pandemic, that they will come to know that they are never alone, and they will experience the comforting love and presence of our God.

Thursday – For the Souls in Purgatory

That through our prayers the souls in Purgatory may be brought home to the eternal Kingdom of Heaven.

Friday – For the intercession and model of all the Saints

That God’s holy ones who have lived the life of faith and now live in the presence of God, will be our example and hope, interceding on our behalf.

Saturday – For the Diocese of Buffalo

As we await the appointment of a new bishop, let us pray for a shepherd after the example of the Good Shepherd.