FR. ROJIN'S WIT & WISDOM - NOVEMBER 5, 2023

In the Gospel of Matthew 23:1-12, presented on the 31st Sunday of Ordinary Time, Jesus' exhortation to humility serves as a profound reflection for our own lives, challenging the natural human desire for recognition and status with the radical call to servant leadership. He admonishes the scribes and Pharisees for their inconsistency between words and actions, urging us to consider our motivations—are we seeking self-glorification or genuinely striving to lift others? This passage invites us to practice what we preach, aligning our actions with our faith and embracing humility not as self-deprecation but as an acknowledgment of our rightful place before God and each other. In the ordinariness of our daily lives, we are called to find sanctity in service and love, following Christ's example who embodied the greatest authority as the servant of all.

I would like to draw your attention to an important matter: Bishop Caggiano extends a heartfelt invitation to all local parish leaders for a pivotal gathering that promises to be a cornerstone in the journey of renewing our Church. The meeting, set within the embracing community of Saint Thomas More Parish Hall on November 18, 2023, stands as an opportunity to unite in prayer and collaborative spirit. This is your moment to voice the challenges and share in the shaping of a vision that responds to the needs of our parishes in Norwalk, Darien, and New Canaan. Pastors, priests, staff, and all those who serve in capacities of leadership and formation are called to contribute their insights. Your presence is not just valuable, but vital, as we discern the priorities that will guide our pastoral work to bear greater fruit. Make your mark on this mission; join Bishop Caggiano in this concerted effort to forge paths of cooperation that will invigorate our ministry and reflect the collective wisdom of our faith community. Let us come together, eager to engage in dialogue and action that will nurture the spiritual vitality of our Church.

Our Regional Middle School youth program is scheduled for this weekend at All Saints School. Additionally, we will be conducting a group session for our elementary school children at Saint Jerome with the participation of their parents. These group sessions will be more engaging, as children will work with their parents to do some activities that will help them comprehend the faith elements in a deeper and more meaningful way.

In other exciting parish news, our boiler project is on the brink of completion. The dedicated efforts of our team shine through their hard work, ensuring our parish facilities remain warm and welcoming. A special note of gratitude is owed to Eddie Devingo, whose craftsmanship on our rectory roof is commendable. Not only did he provide an economical solution, but his generous discounts and additional maintenance are acts of stewardship that embody the spirit of our community. His commitment to stand by us for future needs is a testament to the supportive and caring environment nurtured within our parish. Eddie's role in these improvements exemplifies the sense of kinship and mutual support that makes our parish truly feel like home.

Thank you for your ongoing support for both St. Jerome and me, as always. 

Yours Lovingly – Fr. Rojin