“…For When I am Weak, Then I Am Strong…”

…”but he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.”
I will rather boast most gladly of my weaknesses, in order that the power of Christ may dwell with me.
Therefore, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and constraints, for the sake of Christ; for when I am weak, then I am strong.” Saint Paul, in our second reading this weekend, offers all of us great reason to find comfort and hope in the Lord. Christ does not come to us because we are perfect. Christ comes to us because we are not. We all struggle with faults, hardships, weaknesses and faults. In those moments we are most in need of, and open to, the Lord. If we are strong enough to admit our weakness and struggles, it is Christ who desires to come to us in those moments and make us whole, complete and strong in the Lord. Take a deep breath this week and allow the Lord to come to you in your time of need.

…In last weekend’s bulletin, I invited all of us to take some time to learn more about many who are living on the margins of our society. The immigration debate in our country needs all of our attention and prayers. Last Sunday, after Mass, I heard the range of emotions and thoughts on this important issue. What is most important is that each of us take time to prayerfully reflect on this complicated crisis in our country and world. The United States Conference of Bishops, along with Bishop Perez, have prepared some information and material for our prayerful reflection and consideration. You can find it on our parish website at: www.StAmbrose.us/immigration-letter-from-bishop-perez.

…Over the next few weeks we will be collecting for Christmas in July. We are working to put together ‘back packs’ for the students in our sister parish of Saint Rocco. It’s one way we can be supportive and helpful of those in need in our local community. Watch for the Christmas Trees at the doors. All of us, working together, will make sure that these children have the supplies they need to get a GREAT education and a path to a fuller life.

…Speaking of school, Saint Ambrose School is already ramping up for the new school year. Mrs. Cinadr and Mr. D, along with Mrs. Mitchell, are working hard to create a great school year. Three families stopped by for tours last week. We would love to take care of your child(ren) and family. For more information, contact Mrs. Cinadr at lcinadr@StASchool.us.

…Looking for a GREAT summer night out??? The Outdoor Mass and Movie night is Saturday, July 21, 2018. Mass will start at 6:00 pm down at the Grotto, followed by great family- friendly food and the Smurfs, The Lost Village. All are welcome. Spread the word. Join us for summer family fun at Saint Ambrose. BTW….children of EVERY age are most welcome to come for this fun night.

…Speaking of fun nights. Thanks again for all the help and support for our summer festival. We had GREAT fun together (even in dodging the Friday night rain). The festival went GREAT because of our amazing members who worked hard for the good of our community. The Festival Team is coming together this Tuesday evening to celebrate the great good they did for our parish, along with reflecting on what we did well, and what we can do better for next year. All are welcome in the Mother Theresa Room at 7:00 pm. Again, many thanks for your wonderful support. A complete report will come your way after all the bills are paid.

…The FEST is less than one month away. Please join us for a GREAT day of faith, family and fun – all for FREE – at The FEST… on Sunday, August 5 at the Center for Pastoral Leadership in Wickliffe. You can hear the most amazing bands: TobyMac, Big Daddy Weave, Mandisa and We are Messengers. There’s all sorts of activities and crafts along with engaging displays. There’s something for everyone. To learn more about The FEST go to: www.theFEST.us.

…Our parish community is so helpful and instrumental in creating this amazing day for thousands across our region. It takes about 1,400 volunteers. You can join the choir, assist with the amazing parking crew, or help in some of the activities. We need lots of help….for a couple of hours….on FEST day. To volunteer (or learn more about the needs) go to, www.theFEST.us/volunteer.

…Speaking of volunteering, in the hot summer days, the wonderful folk who take care of our gardens could use a little help ‘watering’ the flowers and plants. A few hours, while others take a break or vacation, would make all the difference. If you can help (even just a little), please send me an email and I will share your wonderful offer with our Adopt- a- Patch Team. Thanks so much.

…This is the most exciting week of the summer….Vacation Bible School. We have hundreds – and hundreds – of young people coming together to learn about the amazing and ‘sufficient’ grace of God in their lives. It is Christ who wants to make them strong in the ways of the Lord. Please keep our youngest members in your prayers this week. Special thanks and prayers to our VBS Team and the energetic teens who will be assisting this week. We are so blessed.

…Enjoy these wonderful days of summer. It’s a time of God’s grace and refreshment. Thanks for all you do for our community. Take a few minutes and stop down at the Grotto – or walk around the campus – and enjoy the beauty of God’s creation.

….Have a blessed week.