It is the 27^th Sunday of Ordinary Time. In Matthew 21:33-43, the parable of the tenants warns against rejecting God's love and care. The vineyard symbolizes God's Kingdom, and the tenants represent rebellious humans who reject messengers and even kill the landowner's son. This parable reminds us that our privileges come with a responsibility to bear the fruits of love, justice, and mercy. We must recognize God's visitation in our lives and take action, or risk losing salvation. Nonetheless, God's redemptive plan cannot be thwarted, and the invitation remains open to all.

It's a jubilant weekend for Saint Jerome Church as we simultaneously celebrate our Parish Festival and host our raffle. Over the past several weeks, our dedicated raffle committee has diligently prepared for this special day — selling tickets, coordinating arrangements, and ensuring everything is set for the festivities. As we come together, it's a time to offer our gratitude to God for the abundant blessings we've received as a Parish Community. Particularly, we seek the intercession of our Patron, Saint Jerome, whose feast we honored on September 30th. I warmly invite everyone to partake in this grand celebration on Sunday, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. And a gentle reminder: if purchasing a ticket presents a challenge, please don’t let that deter you. All are welcome to join and savor the joy of our Parish Festival.

I'd like to pause and extend my deepest gratitude to the raffle committee, spearheaded by Jack O’Melia. With the concerted efforts of team leaders Jack, Doug Mejia, and John Kuczo, they have seamlessly collaborated with other parish community members to bring our vision to fruition. The theme of our combined raffle and Parish Festival is "We Are the World." This celebration promises a tantalizing array of global cuisines, reminding us of the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our world. Even amid our diverse appearances, languages, and ethnic backgrounds, it's vital to remember our shared humanity. As we gather, let this be a reminder of our unity and our call to approach each other with open hearts and minds. While I wish I could personally thank every contributor, it would undoubtedly fill this entire newsletter. Every individual, whether prominently seen or working behind the scenes, has played a pivotal role in orchestrating this event. Their dedication and effort have not gone unnoticed. To everyone who has poured their heart into this endeavor, I express my sincerest appreciation. It's an honor to celebrate and share in these grand festivities with all of you. Let's cherish these moments, our shared effort, and our collective spirit with heartfelt gratitude.

Yours Lovingly – Fr. Rojin