Remarks from Father Rick – New Parish Council Members

First of all, thanks for reading the Sunday Bulletin! The main way that we currently have in communicating to the entire parish is through this Sunday Bulletin. So, I thank you for reading it and staying in touch with what is going on in the community life of Our Lady of the Lake!

This past week we had our evening of discernment for our new Parish Council members. It was a great evening of reflection! Those who had been nominated by the entire parish were invited to attend this evening. Those who attended listened to a presentation about leadership from Leigh Sterten, Diocesan Director of Youth Ministry. After that, current Parish Council members reflected upon their experience of what it means to be a leader in our Parish. I added a few comments about how the meetings are conducted under the atmosphere of consensus. Finally, the evening ended with prayer, in which the Holy Spirit was asked to touch the hearts of those who were discerning.

The following felt the call to serve for a term of three years on our Parish Council here in Branson: Peggy Bowman, Carol Frische, Zach Smith, Ginny Sturgis, Jim & Ruth Ostwinkle. Much thanks to them for their willingness to offer their “Time” and “Talent” to our community of faith. This group of six will join the rest of the Parish Council for a regularly scheduled meeting this Tuesday.

A final note for today has to do with this Saturday, September 8th, this coming Wednesday, September 12th, and next Saturday, September 15th. These are days dedicated to our Blessed Mother. The 8th is Mary's birthday, the 12th is a celebration in honor of the Most Holy Name of Mary, and the 15th is the celebration of Our Lady of Sorrows. Since we are dedicated to the patronage of Mary, I thought it would be good to remind you all to celebrate the life of Mary. She was a great disciple and continues to be that for us by pointing us toward her son, Jesus.

Our Lady of the Ozarks has chosen next Sunday to celebrate their patronage to Mary in a special way. If you are not doing anything next Sunday between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm, feel free to come to Our Lady of the Ozarks in Forsyth for their Parish Picnic… a fun time will be had by all!

Much Peace,
Father Rick