Pastor's Weekly Column

This weekend the Psalm books will be available in the sacristy for anyone who has signed up for one. Although the class/prayer experience will not begin until Friday, February 23 rd , you should start reading the Psalms now. There are two ways of doing this that might work. The first is suggested by a Carmelite priest, Fr. Roland Murphy. This method involves reading each Psalm carefully, even if, and especially if, you have to struggle with it. If you chose this first method, pg. xxii of the introduction suggests Psalms for various times and moods. The second method is to do what I did, read all 150 Psalms, and identify those that speak to you. When I did it, I gave the ones I liked rankings of 7,8, 9 or 10. Then immerse yourself in the ones you have chosen. As you read the Psalm carefully, pay attention to your inner heart response to the words. Linger on lines, images, or phrases that speak to you either positively or negatively. Pope John Paul II is quoted in the Introduction with this valuable insight, “It would be no less interesting to go over the Psalms and consider the various sentiments of the human heart expressed in them: joy, gratitude, thanksgiving, love, tenderness, enthusiasm, but also intense suffering, complaints, pleas for help and for justice, which sometimes lead to anger and imprecation. In the psalms the human being fully discovers himself.” (pg. x). Which ever method you chose, get underneath the words to the human emotions and experiences and connect them to your own life. Finally, we will spend the five sessions trying to enter the worldview of those ancient poets and prayers. There is a brief handout by Paulist Fr. Lawrence Boadt that explains the different kinds of psalms. Look for a category that interests you and try it out.

This Lent St. Jerome parishioners will have a chance to immerse themselves in the world of the Psalms. They are an ancient form of poetry used to create individual and communal prayers. They break open all our emotions and human experiences to leave room for the Lord to enter. Back in October, I started reading the whole 150 Psalms from beginning to end. I am ashamed to say that I ranked each one on a scale from one to ten for personal impact. I then concentrated on those marked 7 or above and prayed over them. Next, I began reading commentaries on the psalms as a whole and on the individual psalms that I had marked. Then, to my surprise, once I had entered fully into the worldview of those ancient writers, which is different than ours, I found many more psalms moved up in my rankings. I think that what happened to me allowed me to see this truth from Martin Luther, who in his commentary on psalm 12 said this: “None of you can pray a psalm if you have not made the words of the psalm your own. But they will then be your own when you have the same feeling and the same spirit in which the words were said. If you pray without this, you resemble those who play a role in a comedy, where the action takes place with proper words, but with a reality that is artificial.” If you would like to learn to pray the psalms, sign up in the hallway for a small book of all 150 Psalms. It is free, but we will accept donations. Then starting on Friday February 23 and for the next five Fridays we will have a group study. The morning session will be after the 9am Mass and the evening session will be with our traditional Lenten Soup and Bread Suppers. Both sessions will offer the same material. Next weekend we will welcome our new leader, Fr. Declan Creighton, who will be at all the Masses. This is a parish where the people love their priests. In no time at all, you will come to love him and he you. 

I am writing this on Friday January 19 th and bring to you news of great joy! We have a pastor! Bishop Caggiano has appointed Fr. Declan Creighton as our administrator for 6 months after which he will have the opportunity to become pastor. I have met Fr. Declan, and he is delightful, with a lovely Irish brogue and a gentleness of spirit. Priests who know him describe him as a fine priest, which in priestly circles is high praise. He is Irish born with experience in ministry including in Chile, Denver, Hartford, and now with us. Fr. Declan begins on January 31 st , and you will get to meet him the first weekend in February. Make him a part of the family! I also want you to know that this Lent our parish focus will be on the Psalms. They are an invaluable tool for anyone who wants to deepen their prayer life. I was reminded of that truth at Tom Larkin’s funeral. Tom was a man of deep prayer and so the family chose psalm 34 for the responsorial psalm. It was proclaimed by Tom’s son, Cody, himself a man of deep prayer. As Cody read the psalm, he choked up a bit. I know it was because the psalm was prayed by Tom as he faced the great torment of living and dying with ALS. It was a prayer of trust and confidence. Tom lived the experience spoken of in that psalm. So, this Lent, we will have a Morning Study after 9am Mass, and Friday evenings will begin with our usual Lenten Soup & Bread Suppers, followed by entering into the psalms. Both sessions will cover the same ground. We are also ordering a pocket-sized book of the revised Grail Psalms, which is the new translation to be used in the Liturgy of the Hours. It is a beautiful translation. If you would like a copy of the book of psalms, we have a sign-up sheet in the hallway so we will know how many to order. We will offer the books for free and ask for a donation to help defray the cost to the parish. I have spent the last two months immersed in the psalms and it has enriched my prayer life. The first thing I did was read all 150 and chose my favorites. That list came to well over 40! There is a psalm for almost any human circumstance. Sign up and see for yourself.

As I sit down to write these words, my heart overflows with emotion. It's hard to believe that after eight and a half years, 3,095 days to be exact, my time at St. Jerome has come to an end. The weekend of Epiphany, marked by our first snowfall of the year, brought an unexpected turn of events. Amidst the shifting plans and chaotic weather, I anticipated a small farewell gathering. But to my surprise, a multitude of people came together on that Saturday evening, both for the mass and the dinner that followed. Standing before you all, conducting the mass, my mind was a whirlwind of emotions, especially when the choir sang some of my favorite songs. Listening to your words, reliving our shared memories, and feeling the love you extended towards me created a farewell that will forever remain etched in my heart. Since the announcement of my departure from St. Jerome, I've been overwhelmed by an outpouring of love from this community. Invitations to dinners, lunches, and gatherings have filled my days, and I've cherished every moment spent in the company of families and friends. While I must admit to gaining a few pounds from all the delicious meals, the true nourishment has come from the love I've experienced here. The warmth and kindness of the people of St. Jerome have touched my heart in a way that words cannot express. I am deeply grateful for the countless ways you have shown your love and care for me since my arrival. You have enriched my life beyond measure, and I will forever carry the memories of our time together. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for everything. I am forever indebted to you all. As I opened each card you sent, my heart overflowed with emotion. Your kind words, heartfelt wishes, and personal stories touched me deeply. I felt the love and care you poured into every message and gift, and I'm so incredibly grateful. My initial plan was to write individual thank you notes, but I humbly admit that the sheer abundance of your kindness has made that impossible. To express my gratitude to each of you personally would take weeks, and I fear I would still miss someone! So, I've chosen to share my thanks in this newsletter, where my words can reach you all. I'm deeply touched by the generosity you've shown, not only in your kind words but also in your thoughtful gifts. I was even surprised to receive gifts in the names of some of your beloved pets—a testament to the love and blessings that have filled your homes in recent years. Please know that the monetary gifts you've given will be used for something truly meaningful, something that will allow me to cherish your generosity and love for the rest of my life. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for making me feel so loved and appreciated. Your kindness has made a profound impact on my life. To the dear children of St. Jerome's Faith Formation, your gifts have touched my heart in a way that words can hardly express. Your kind words of appreciation mean more to me than you could ever know, and I will treasure your writings as a source of inspiration in the days ahead. Thank you for sharing your love through your heartfelt messages and the generous monetary gift. Your thoughtfulness has humbled me deeply, and I am filled with profound gratitude. Each of you will remain in my thoughts and prayers. I have unwavering faith that you will embark on remarkable journeys and do wonderful things in the world. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Dear teachers of St. Jerome Faith Formation, thank you for guiding our children. Your kindness and efforts are highly appreciated. I've saved the most important part for last: a heartfelt thank you to the incredible organizers and volunteers who made the farewell celebration so special. I'm deeply humbled by the outpouring of love and care I received that night. It's a question I often ask myself: am I worthy of such kindness from such wonderful people? Sometimes, we receive love even when we feel undeserving, and that's a profound gift. Kathy Rohr and Daniela O'Callaghan, I'm especially grateful to you for your tireless efforts in planning and coordinating the entire program. Your dedication made the evening seamless and unforgettable. To the kitchen crew, thank you for your consistently excellent work. You bring people together through the magic of cooking, sharing love with every dish you prepare. The food, as always, was exceptional, and everyone raved about it. To the men's group and all the volunteers who helped with cleaning and setup, thank you for your hard work and dedication. Your contributions ensured a beautiful and welcoming space for our gathering. And to everyone who brought desserts, appetizers, and other delicious treats, thank you for adding to the abundance and joy of the celebration. The shared meals and conversations around those tables will stay with me for a long time. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to each and every one of you who joined us that night. It was a true celebration, and we have the next one coming on January 19th, when you'll celebrate Father David's 80th birthday! His continued presence in our community is a blessing, and I'm grateful he'll be here as administrator until our new pastor arrives. As I embark on my new journey, I ask that you keep me in your thoughts and prayers. I'm confident that our paths will cross again, and I cherish the moments we've shared and those yet to come. As I pause here, I feel a quiet certainty that these words may be my last within the St. Jerome Bulletin. For your unwavering patience and kindness in reading my lengthy musings, I offer my sincerest gratitude. With a heart brimming with appreciation, I bid you all a warm and heartfelt farewell. Yours Lovingly – Fr. Rojin 

This weekend we celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord. The Epiphany of the Lord, as depicted in the scripture passage of Matthew 2:1-12, is a profound revelation of the divine to the Gentiles. The visit of the Magi, guided by a star, signifies the universal nature of Christ's salvation. The journey of the Wise Men reflects the human quest for meaning and truth, as they followed the celestial sign to find the newborn King. Their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh symbolize homage, worship, and the recognition of Jesus' earthly and heavenly significance. The Epiphany reminds us that God's revelation transcends cultural and geographical boundaries, inviting all people to encounter the divine. It prompts reflection on our own spiritual journey and the ways in which we seek and recognize the presence of God in our lives. Just as the Magi offered their precious gifts, the Epiphany challenges us to offer our hearts and lives in worship and acknowledgment of the divine manifestation in Jesus Christ. The narrative of the Epiphany of the Lord holds a special resonance for me, especially as I conclude my role as the pastor of Saint Jerome Church this weekend and embark on a sabbatical journey. Similar to the wise men who sought Jesus, I find myself on a symbolic spiritual journey during this time of transition. As I step into a year-long sabbatical, I reflect on the parallels between the Magi's quest and my own pursuit of the divine in the coming months. Their gifts, representing a profound search for the Lord, mirror the spiritual and life journey we all undertake. I feel immensely blessed to have spent the past eight and a half years with the community of Saint Jerome, a period that has been the best years of my life. The invaluable experiences and growth I've encountered here have shaped me in various ways, and I am profoundly grateful to the supportive community that has been an integral part of my journey. As I reflect on my journey at St. Jerome, I am compelled to express my deep gratitude to those who paved the way for me to be a part of this community. I extend my sincere appreciation to Bishop Caggiano for the invitation to study and work in the diocese, a gesture facilitated by the mediation of Msgr. Robert Kinnally, the pastor of St. Aloysius, New Canaan. Initially arriving at St. Jerome for a brief 40-day period during Father Dave's vacation, I anticipated a transition to Our Lady of Grace in Stratford. However, Father Dave's efforts and conversations with the diocesan leadership led to an extension of my stay at St. Jerome for three years, serving as an associate pastor. Amidst continuing my studies and Father Dave's retirement, a pivotal moment arose when Bishop Caggiano entrusted me with the responsibility of leading St. Jerome. Throughout this transformative journey, Father Dave has been more than a colleague; he has been a father figure, a source of support, and a constant companion. Grateful for his kindness and unwavering support, I acknowledge the positive impact he has had on my life at St. Jerome, and I am indebted to the entire community for being my loving companions and pillars of strength. I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to the incredible staff members at Saint Jerome. Our church is truly fortunate to have such highly talented individuals who consistently offer their unwavering support. It has been a genuine blessing to have these dedicated individuals by my side as we work together to fulfill the goals and aspirations of our community. Though I won't name each one individually, you all know who they are, and I want you to understand how truly blessed we are to have them as part of the Saint Jerome Church family. Their commitment has been instrumental in keeping the church running smoothly on a regular basis. I also fondly remember those who served on the staff in the past. A special acknowledgment goes to Deacon Dean for his support during his active tenure. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all staff members for their kindness and unwavering support throughout these past 8 and 1/2 years. Your invaluable contributions have defined our collaborative spirit, and I am deeply grateful for the journey we have shared together. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the outstanding parish leadership at Saint Jerome Church, encompassing all the active volunteers across various ministries. The commitment and passion exhibited by our leadership team have been instrumental in shaping the spirit of our community. Their dedication surpasses expectations, evident in the collaborative efforts with community members that truly set our parish apart. A recent meeting with Monsignor Kinnally, focusing on the selection of a new pastor, underscored the remarkable qualities of our parish leadership. Monsignor Kinnally commended their spirituality, commitment, and profound love for the parish, recognizing the distinctiveness that defines Saint Jerome. Having had the privilege of working with and getting to know each of you in the past years, I want to convey my sincere thanks for your kindness, unwavering support, and valuable advice. Your contributions have transformed this parish into a beautiful and spiritually enriching place, and I consider myself fortunate to have been part of this journey with such a dedicated and inspiring leadership team. I want to express my deepest gratitude to all the members of St. Jerome Church. Your acceptance of me just as I am, with my strengths and weaknesses, has been a source of immense strength and support. Without the encouragement and backing of the community members of Saint Jerome, my journey in this parish would not have been possible. Your kindness, support, and constant presence have been the pillars of my time here. The words of appreciation, encouragement, and your readiness to help at any time have shaped my experience in this community. Your financial support, prayers, commitment, volunteering, and love for humanity are what make each of you special. Your collective inspiration and desire to serve humanity have propelled the parish to new heights, and it has been a privilege to witness and be a part of this transformative journey. The numerous kind and compassionate individuals at St. Jerome have set examples that will resonate with me for a lifetime, influencing my own thoughts on life. Thank you for being so incredibly nice to me, for helping, supporting, strengthening, and, most importantly, believing in me. As I bring this lengthy column to a close, I earnestly request your continued support and prayers for our upcoming new pastor. The process of finding a replacement is underway, and I have been informed that we will soon have a name to welcome into our community. Departing on January 10th, I am confident that Father Dave will seamlessly facilitate the transition, acting as a vital link between the new pastor and our community. I emphasize the importance of extending the same warmth, kindness, and support you have graciously provided me over the years to our incoming pastor. Your open hearts and dedication will undoubtedly create a welcoming environment, enabling the new pastor to commit wholeheartedly to the well-being of Saint Jerome. Though I express this as a formality, I have full faith that you will extend a warm welcome and assist the new pastor in establishing and fulfilling his duties. I appreciate your prayers as I embark on this new chapter of my life, eagerly following my heart's calling to a new area of ministry and service to the people. Thanking you once again, Yours Lovingly – Fr. Rojin

As we stand on the brink of a weekend enveloped in the spirit of Christmas and anticipate the dawn of a new year, my heart swells with reflections on the past eight years of joyous celebrations at St. Jerome Church. This festive season, with all its trimmings and traditions, occupies a special chamber in my heart, brimming with gratitude for the countless moments of laughter, fellowship, and shared joy that have defined our gatherings. Acknowledging that this may mark my final Christmas celebration at St. Jerome Church, I feel compelled to share these sentiments with you. Let the enchanting glow of twinkling lights, the harmonious melodies of carols, and the comforting warmth of loved ones surrounding us serve as a poignant reminder of the true essence of Christmas – a season of joy, celebration, and treasured family moments. As we anticipate families gathering in the cozy embrace of their homes on the 25th of December, the festive air is sure to be filled with the harmonious notes of love and laughter. The radiant glow of Christmas lights promises to illuminate our hearts, cultivating a profound sense of community and connection. From the delightful decorations adorning our spaces to the melodious carols resonating through households, each moment will reverberate with the true significance of Christmas – a time to revel in the birth of hope, love, and joy. St. Jerome Church, too, will resonate with the collective gratitude for the shared blessings of the season, underscoring the paramount importance of family ties and the sheer delight found in the simple yet profound moments spent together. In the spirit of the season, as gifts are exchanged and meals are shared, the very essence of Christmas will saturate every nook and cranny, reaffirming the profound truth that, in the warm embrace of loved ones, the joy of the season is truly magnified. May this festive spirit reverberate in our hearts well into the coming year, nurturing a profound sense of unity and compassion within our community. In this season of togetherness, I extend my warmest wishes to each and every one of you for a Christmas that is truly magical. May this time bring you not only joy but also the warmth of shared moments with your loved ones. And as we step into the embrace of the New Year, may it unfold with promises of hope, new opportunities, and the realization of your deepest aspirations. Thank you for being an integral part of these beautiful memories, and here's to a splendid New Year that awaits us all!

It is already the Third Sunday of Advent. The scripture passage from John 1:6-8, 19-28 for the Third Sunday of Advent centers around the testimony of John the Baptist. As the Gospel unfolds, we encounter John, a voice crying out in the wilderness, preparing the way for the Lord. His humility shines through as he emphasizes that he is not the light but a witness to the light. This passage prompts us to reflect on the importance of humility and self-awareness in our own spiritual journeys. In a season that calls us to prepare for the coming of Christ, John's example challenges us to be authentic witnesses, acknowledging our role in God's plan without seeking personal glory. As we navigate the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, the words of John the Baptist serve as a gentle reminder to redirect our focus towards the true Light that is coming into the world, renewing our sense of purpose and commitment to a life centered on Christ. It was a joyous occasion on Tuesday as the St. Jerome community came together for a heartwarming ‘Lessons and Carols’ (carol singing and scripture reading joined together). The atmosphere at our church was truly prayerful, providing everyone with a special opportunity for communal prayer and reflection. Following this spiritually enriching experience, we gathered at the Parish Hall, where Daniela and Joe O’Callaghan took the lead in orchestrating a beautiful night. Gratitude goes out to the dedicated choir members, readers, and all who actively participated in making this celebration memorable. The evening was not only about the harmonious sounds of carols and the reading of scripture but also a time for fellowship as we enjoyed hot chocolate and delicious snacks. I extend heartfelt thanks to everyone involved with our Lessons & Carols. I would also like to commend those who have contributed to our Giving Tree for Christmas during this sacred Advent season. Together, these two things have captured the meaningful and memorable spirit of the season. This past weekend, All Saints School hosted a fantastic session for our middle school program, and the gathering was nothing short of inspiring. The level of participation from individuals was truly heartening, signaling a growing sense of collaboration and involvement among the four parishes in our region. This collective effort stands out as the highlight of our ministry, emphasizing the strength that lies in unity and shared purpose. A sincere thank you goes out to our dedicated volunteers and leaders who played a pivotal role in orchestrating this impactful event. It is through their commitment and passion that we can provide meaningful ministries for the benefit of our children and the broader community. This collaborative spirit reflects the essence of our shared journey in faith and the positive impact we can make when working together for a common purpose. As we immerse ourselves in the Advent season, our hearts are filled with anticipation for the announcement of our new pastor, expected by the month's end. The spirit of waiting is intertwined with our collective prayers, seeking divine intervention and the continued guidance of the Holy Spirit. Our hopes extend beyond the appointment of a new shepherd to encompass the collaboration of community leaders and the entire Saint Jerome community. Together, we aspire to carry forward the legacy of Saint Jerome to new heights, fostering unity and shared purpose. May this season of waiting be a time of spiritual preparation, binding us together in faith and anticipation for the blessings that the future holds. Thanking you for your continued support and generosity, yours lovingly – Fr. Rojin

It is the Second Sunday of Advent. In Mark 1:1-8, the Gospel sets the tone for the second Sunday of Advent with the proclamation of John the Baptist preparing the way for the coming Messiah. This passage invites us to reflect on the theme of preparation and repentance during this season of anticipation. John's call to "prepare the way of the Lord" serves as a poignant reminder for us to examine our hearts and make room for the transformative presence of Christ in our lives. As we light the second Advent candle, symbolizing peace, the scripture challenges us to find peace through repentance and a renewed commitment to spiritual readiness. Just as John baptized with water, we are called to immerse ourselves in the cleansing waters of repentance, paving the way for the Prince of Peace to enter our lives afresh. The Advent season thus becomes an opportunity to align our hearts with the message of hope and redemption, fostering a sense of inner peace that transcends the busyness of the season and centers us on the true meaning of Christmas. Last week, our community at St. Jerome Church witnessed a heartwarming display of extraordinary generosity and unity. During our special collection for the annual Bishops' Appeal, we aimed to raise $3,000. But the St. Jerome spirit truly shone through, and we surpassed our target by raising an incredible $3,500! Even with challenging weather conditions that kept attendance lower than usual, the collective determination of our parishioners shone brightly. This showcased the remarkable strength and solidarity of our faith community. We are genuinely grateful to each and every individual who contributed to this achievement. Your support signifies the power of our shared commitment and the remarkable ability of our parish to rally together in times of need. Your generosity has not only met, but exceeded our goal for the year, reflecting the resilience and compassion that define the spirit of St. Jerome Church. Thank you wholeheartedly for your contributions. Together, we have reached our annual goal, and we couldn't have done it without you. Last Thursday, we were honored to welcome Monsignor Bob Kinnally and Deacon Jerry Lambert from the diocese to St. Jerome Parish. Their visit served as the official beginning of our search for a new pastor. During the meeting, Monsignor Kinnally and Deacon Lambert engaged in open discussions with our dedicated staff, Trustee, Parish Council, and Finance Council members. They actively listened to the valuable insights and perspectives shared by our parishioners as the search for our next spiritual leader commences. As we embark on this journey together, I humbly ask for your prayers and positive thoughts throughout the discernment process. May God bless us with a highly spiritual and inspiring pastor who will guide us to greater spiritual heights and strengthen the bonds that unite our community. With your unwavering support and God's grace, I am confident that we will be blessed with a wonderful leader who will deepen our connection with God and lead us closer to His presence. We eagerly await the arrival of a pastor who will inspire and guide us on this shared journey of faith and community. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart for your continued support and help at St. Jerome Church. We wouldn't be able to do the things we do without your kindness and generosity. Wishing you a wonderful week ahead and filled with gratitude for your constant love and care. Yours Lovingly – Fr. Rojin

Today is the first Sunday of Advent, marking the start of a new liturgical year. The scripture passage of Mark 13:33-37, observed on this day, reminds us of the importance of being vigilant and ready for the coming of the Lord. Jesus' words in this passage emphasize the uncertainty of the time of his return and the need for staying alert. As we enter the Advent season, we should reflect on our spiritual preparedness, examining the state of our hearts, staying connected with God through prayer and reflection, and living according to Christ's teachings. The Advent wreath, lit on this day, symbolizes hope and anticipation, reminding us to not only celebrate the birth of Christ but also eagerly anticipate his second coming. During this season, the scripture inspires us to be watchful and faithful in our spiritual journey. Let us be mindful of this sense of urgency and strive to grow in our discipleship. The Saint Jerome community stands as a testament to the strength of faith and unity that defines its members. This Tuesday, as they bid a poignant farewell to Tom Larkin, a cherished member who contributed significantly to the parish through his involvement in the men's group and various connections, the community experienced a profound loss. Despite the pain, the faith that unites them became a source of solace and a catalyst for coming together. The parish mass and celebration of Tom's life were not just rituals but a testament to the deep bonds that tie the community. A heartfelt appreciation extends to the funeral committee, whose exceptional dedication and hard work shone through, seamlessly bringing the parish together. In this challenging time, the collaborative spirit of the committee and other parish leaders was instrumental in crafting a beautiful and memorable farewell, illustrating the strength of St. Jerome's community bonds and their commitment to supporting one another in times of both joy and sorrow. Dear parishioners, your generosity and commitment to our community have brought us remarkably close to achieving our goal for this year's Annual Bishop's Appeal. We are incredibly grateful for the support from most of our parishioners, but we find ourselves just shy of reaching the finish line. We are reaching out to you once again, not out of preference but out of necessity. We believe in the strength of our community, and with your collaboration and support, we can bridge the remaining gap. This weekend, we are doing a special collection dedicated to covering the remaining amount. If your finances allow, we kindly ask you to consider contributing by writing a check to Saint Jerome, with "Bishop's Appeal" in the memo. Your continued support and understanding make a significant impact on our parish, and together, we can ensure the success of this important endeavor. Thank you for being an integral part of our St. Jerome family. In closing, I extend heartfelt gratitude to everyone who played a pivotal role in making our tree-lighting event a memorable success. Despite the unfavorable weather, the warmth of community spirit prevailed as many of you came forward to participate. A special acknowledgment goes to Daniela, Joe, and Kathy, whose dedication and leadership shone brightly, steering the event with grace and enthusiasm. Their efforts, alongside those of other dedicated parish leaders, truly made the occasion special. Thank you for your unwavering support and the indomitable spirit that makes our parish truly exceptional. Wishing you a graceful Advent season, yours lovingly – Fr. Rojin