A Note From Our Pastor: February 1, 2026

This past weekend we were blessed to celebrate Catholic Schools week. But also, we had our first Works of Mercy collection (4th weekend of the month) at St. Philomena. Recently, I wrote about this, that at St. Thomas, we already have Works of Mercy initiatives underway (St. Vincent de Paul Society, the public garden). It was important that we got some things started at St. Philomena. I’ve heard from some St. Thomas parishioners, expressing interest in having a similar monthly collection, so I look forward to exploring it and what organizations we would choose to partner with. More to come.

Also this weekend at St. Philomena, we had our first dinner to serve the hungry (4th Friday of the month). It was wonderful. I’m so grateful for the coordinators and many volunteers who made it happen. Oh yeah, and the Seahawks beat the Rams and are now going to the Superbowl!

Next, please save the date for our upcoming Parish Mission with Sister Mary Eucharista of the religious community, the Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Church. I remind you, a parish mission is an event intended to bring about spiritual renewal for those who attend or for a parish community itself. As far as I'm aware, it's been years since our parishes last hosted one in English.

This parish mission, for both of our parishes, will take place at St. Philomena. As shown on our website and in the bulletin, we will begin with a workshop for women in the morning of Saturday, February 21 (specific time will be announced soon). We will then have an evening presentation for all parishioners on both Monday, February 23 and Tuesday, February 24. Is the Lord desiring to bring about spiritual growth in you?

This could be a very good opportunity to invite a non-Catholic. Who do you know that would benefit from seeing what’s beautiful about our Catholic faith? Invite them! Please be there for the benefit of those you love. Be there with your parish community.

On a different note, we will soon begin our Adult Confirmation program (at least 18 years old). This is for Catholics already baptized, who have received First Holy Communion and are catechized (meaning that they have a good basis of understanding their Catholic faith and have been practicing it, including weekly Mass attendance). Father Ben and I will teach the classes, the first of which occur on Saturday, February 28th (10:00am) in the St. Philomena parish office.

By the way, if one is asked to be a godparent for Baptism, a sponsor for another Confirmation, or to marry, it’s essential that they are Confirmed. We’d love to help you receive this important Sacrament and to help you become a fully initiated Catholic. Call to register.

Yours in Christ,

Father Todd O. Strange