All Brothers
On Saturday, October 3rd, Pope Francis will travel to Assisi to formally sign a new encyclical entitled “Fratelli Tutti.” Although the official English title has not been given, it would literally translate All brothers. It comes from the writings of St. Francis of Assisi: “Let us all brothers, consider the Good Shepherd who to save his sheep, bore the suffering of the Cross.” (Admonitions 6:1) Fraternity has been a central theme of Pope Francis from the beginning of his pontificate. In fact, on the day he was elected pope, he greeted and addressed the world as brothers.
Promoting and emphasizing this theme is indeed a timely message our world needs to hear. With a worldwide pandemic; the problems of refugees, migrants, and immigrants; and an uncompromising polarization between conservatives and liberals; charity and respect are often lost. Many people suffer. The reminder that Jesus came to live with us as a brother, not a master or lord, sets a pattern as to how we should live and treat each other. As brothers and sisters we share together the blessing of salvation. There can be no justification for neglect or disrespect. Brothers (and sisters) look out for one another. Putting the needs of others, even over our own rights, is the true imitation of our brother, Christ. Selfishness, pride, and indifference are the antithesis of fraternal love.
Pope Francis’ visit to Assisi will include Mass at the tomb of St. Francis. It will not be open to the public due to health guidelines currently in place.
Hopefully, this letter will give all of us pause to reflect on our own attitudes and behaviors. For our world does not judge our church so much on its teachings as it does on the way it lives those teachings. May we be genuine ambassadors of Christ and true brothers and sisters of the Lord.
Father Jeff
Flu Shots - September 12 and 13
Get your flu shots at Blessed Sacrament this year and save 20 cents per gallon on gas!! A Flu Shot Clinic for anyone age 10 and over, with Hi Dose Vaccine for those age 65 and over sponsored by Hy-Vee Pharmacy (no charge with Medicare/Medicaid card and most insurance companies) will be offered to the parishioners of Blessed Sacrament outside by the school entrance after all Masses, on Saturday, September 12, and Sunday, September 13. So mark your calendars- protect yourself and others- get a flu shot.
You may download the Informed Consent form below. If you complete the form at home it will save time after Mass, but it's OPTIONAL.
Own Your Own Statue
Timothy P. Schmalz created 10" miniature desktop versions of our Saint Teresa of Calcutta statue. We are selling these beautiful replicas for $75. Please contact the parish office at 528-7521 or simply stop by during office hours - Monday through Friday 8:00 AM until 4:00 PM. While supplies last!
The 51st annual Blessed Sacrament School auction is scheduled for Saturday, October 17. Auction sponsorships are available now - you can download the form here and return it to the school or parish office(s).