Father's Notes

As you likely know, we celebrate the memorial of St. Nicholas this past week. Most everyone is aware of a connection between this historical figure (a 4th century bishop from Turkey) and the person we refer to as Santa Claus (or “Ol’ Saint Nick” , married to Mrs. Claus; lives in the North Pole; dressed head-to-toe in red and white, with black leather boots and belt; drives a sleigh, pulled by 8 [or 9] reindeer; drinks Coca-Cola; is watching you at all times to evaluate your b

If I were to ask you what the most important promises are, how would you respond? While most may say wedding vows, there is another kind we all share regardless of vocation. I am speaking about the Baptismal promises we periodically renew at Mass. But have you ever stopped to think about what you are saying “I do” to? I remember listening to a podcast with a former marriage/family therapist named Dr. Bob Schuchts. He encouraged his listeners to pray their baptismal vows daily

You’ve likely heard of the Precepts of the Catholic Church . While we’re called to thrive and be fully alive in our faith, the precepts can perhaps be understood as the minimum requirements of an practicing Catholic. Why does the Church burden us with any rules? It’s for the same reason our parents provided guidelines for us. The Church wants us to flourish as human persons, and thus, as a gesture of love, she (the Church) gives us guidelines to help us flourish. So, what ar

In his November 16 note, our pastor reflects on hope and perseverance in faith, highlights upcoming parish events, and encourages us to embrace service with joy.

In his November 9 note, Father Todd O. Strange shares parish financial insights, reaffirms his commitment to wise stewardship, and explains new safety measures for the St. Philomena parish office.

In his November 2 note, our pastor invites the parish to join the September 2026 pilgrimage, reflecting on how spiritual journeys unite us in faith and deepen our relationship with Christ.

In his October 26 note, our parochial vicar reflects on how scripture calls us to “the one thing necessary” and invites us to sit at the feet of Jesus amid our busy lives.

In his note of October 19, 2025, our pastor shares the call to men in the parish to form a faith-filled men’s group, highlighting the importance of friendships grounded in faith and inviting participation.

In his October 12 note, our pastor explains how the Sunday bulletin has been revamped for both parishes, outlines weekly and year-to-date giving goals, and expresses heartfelt gratitude for your continued support.

In his October 5 note, our pastor thanks volunteers, introduces the parish mobile app, and invites us to stay connected and engaged as a community.

In his September 28 note, our parochial vicar discusses a thoughtful reflection on alcohol as the fall season begins and holidays approach, encouraging responsible choices and spiritual awareness.

In his September 21 note, our pastor looks ahead to the first session of The Search on September 25, inviting members of the St. Philomena community to join and explore faith together.

In his September 14 note, our pastor reflects on noticing a simple yet meaningful detail while in Milan, which stirred a deeper awareness of faith in everyday life at St. Philomena Parish.

In his September 7 note, our pastor reflects on the upcoming canonization of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati and Blessed Carlo Acutis, and highlights the parish website upgrades to better serve our community in both English and Spanish.

In his August 31 note, our parochial vicar reflects on the end of summer, the beginning of fall parish life, and invites our community to embrace renewed energy, faith, and service as the new season begins.

In his August 24 note, our pastor highlights the upcoming fall program schedule at St. Philomena Parish, encourages involvement in parish ministries, and invites the whole community to deepen faith together this year.

In his August 17 note, our pastor begins a seven-part series on marriage, inviting the parish to see God’s love story woven into Scripture and the Sacrament, while preparing deeper reflections in upcoming letters.

In his August 10 note, our pastor invites the community to join the new scripture-based small-group ministry, offers reflections on the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives, and encourages slow-down and renewal this season.

In his August 3 note, our pastor reflects on the importance of parish life together, thanks volunteers for keeping our community strong, and invites everyone to new faith-building events this fall.

En su nota del 27 de julio de 2025, nuestro vicario parroquial afirma la dignidad de toda vida humana y anuncia el nuevo Comité de Respeto a la Vida en la parroquia e invita a corazones compasivos a unirse para construir una cultura de vida.