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Dear Friends in Christ,
I have two audiences in mind as I share this reflection. The first is to our family of parishes, the second is to all our families with students in our three schools.
Last Saturday, February 14th, I had the privilege of accompanying our catechumens, those preparing for baptism, confirmation, and first eucharist, to the Rite of Election at St. James Cathedral. This is a formal welcome to the life of the greater Catholic community by one of our bishops. Our celebration was presided over by Bishop Frank Schuster. Our NE Seattle Catholic group was also joined by those already baptized in other Christian denominations who are candidates for full reception into the Catholic Church. All toll our group numbers 23 people.
Four of the people preparing for initiation are students in several of our parish schools. One of the things that makes our schools truly Catholic is that we welcome families who, in fact, are not Catholic. We never try to force our faith on anyone, but when a student expresses interest in joining our church, we are glad to support them. They are a great gift to our community.
The next phase of our Partners in the Gospel process is to discuss the question “Who do we want to become as a single parish community?” My hope and prayer are that our parish and school communities will always be places where all are welcome to belong!
Blessings of peace,
Fr. William Heric, Pastor