…”So they said to him, “Sir, give us this bread always.” Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.” The Gospel, this weekend, continues with the Bread of Life discourse. Jesus again promises that everyone who trusts and believes will never hunger or thirst. How can we use these early days of August to come to the Lord – to be nourished and fed by the Lord?
…As Jesus nourishes and cares for us, we are called to bring the care of Christ to others. We, at Saint Ambrose, continue the mission of Jesus in many, many ways. This weekend, so many of our members are helping feed the ‘multitude’ at The FEST. It’s a great day of faith – and family – and fun. Literally, our members will park the cars, cook the brauts and help bring thousands together at the table of the Lord. As we do so, we trust in the living bread of Jesus Christ.
…Another way we continue this mission of Christ is the way we care for those in need. The outpouring of school supplies was simply – and sincerely – humbling. It was one more reflection of the depth and breadth of your goodness. I watched one of our younger members come running into the narthex on Monday with a shopping bag….her mom was in the car outside. She was ‘running in’ with the school supplies she purchased with her own money. A child at Saint Rocco School in the City of Cleveland will have a brand new pack of crayons because of this little girl’s thoughtfulness and care. She was excited – beaming – to help, give and share. I have to believe that, as she gives to others, the Lord will bless her over and again.
…One more example of feeding others comes from the weekly distribution of fresh fruit and vegetables to about 35 families in our region each week. Our Community Garden is producing vegetables. Some of our members are dropping off things for those in need. It’s simply beautiful. It really is!!!
…And finally, today (Tuesday), about 35 of our junior high students came out to help at The FEST. They prepared give away bags for moms. The team sorted through 150,000 items and prepared 5,500 bags to give as ‘gifts’ to those who come to The FEST. You could hear the joy as they ‘shopped’ all day long for others. My sixth grade nephew, Luke, was showing off as he carried 12 bags at one time!!!
…And honestly, one more story. One of our members came running up to the office about a week ago. She was excited to talk to me. She has long wanted to get a bench for the narthex so people could sit, relax, talk, and enjoy life and friendship. After lots of looking for the ‘right’ bench, it arrived the other day. You can now see it in the narthex. What a blessing, beyond words, that she would be so thoughtful and care so much to make sure others could come, sit, relax and share conversations. We are so very, very blessed.
…Speaking of school supplies, school is starting soon. If you (or a family member) is heading off to college, please send us their contact information and email so we can keep in touch with them during their school year. Every now and then we will send some treats, prayers and let them know how much their parish family cares for them. Send their contact info to: COneil@StAmbrose.us.
…Speaking of school, this is a GREAT week to sign up for PSR. Our PSR team is ready to help pass on the faith to the children in our community. More important than sports, dance, and video games, is to make sure we teach our children the ways of the Lord. Please let us know how we can help you and your family. For PSR information, or to register, contact Janet at jmajka@StAmbrose.us.
…Every one of us has unique gifts and talents. Some are natural teachers. Our parish depends on wonderful members to serve as catechists for our many ‘teaching ‘ programs. If you would like to use your God given talents AND do great work for the Lord, we would love to give you some opportunities to teach….serve…and do the Lord’s work. Interested? Want to learn more?? Contact Janet Majka (JMajka@StAmbrose.us).
…Believe it or not, next Sunday is SPIRIT Sunday. As Saint Ambrose School ramps up for another school year, all of our students are invited to come and learn their class assignments, renew friendship, and meet their new teachers. Mrs. Cinadr, Mr. Dziedzicki and Mrs. Mitchell have been working hard to make sure we are ready for a most amazing school year. If they can be of any help to you and your family, please contact them in the school.
…Many have been asking about the repair/renovation of the Church. First and foremost, many, many thanks to all the members who have started fulfilling their commitment to the capital campaign. Thanks, also to those who are using the Building Fund envelopes. Your help and support are greatly appreciated and needed to make this project come to fruition for the Lord and our community. Over the past several weeks, we have been working diligently with the team from Marous Brothers to secure bids and finalize the budget for the project. We have also been working with the Diocese to review all aspects of the project to receive all the needed permissions and, ultimately, the approval of Bishop Perez. I hope that much of this will come together over the next week. Once we have things tightened up and finalized, our Vision 2020 team will make sure to give you and our entire community an update. Please keep this important project in your prayers.
…Speaking of Bishop Perez, if you are reading this, it’s not too late to head out to The FEST. Bishop Perez is excited to bring everyone together for Mass at 8:00 pm. Matt Fodor, Max Menkhaus and Helen Lanzarotta will be leading the music and worship team. Their amazing efforts at The FEST are a stirring reminder of how blessed we are to have them serve our community week in and out. Come see, hear and celebrate the glory of God and the goodness of our members. See you at The FEST.
…Jesus promises that if you believe, you will never thirst. May we use this week to deepen our faith and trust in the Lord. God bless you for all the good you do. May these weeks of August be filled with God’s grace and blessing.
