From the Desk of Fr. Schaller - September 5, 2021

The Old Testament prophets frequently indicate the signs of the coming of the Lord. Among those signs, the prophet Isaiah (in today’s first reading) says that “then will the eyes of the blind be opened, the ears of the deaf be cleared...” This prophecy is beautifully fulfilled in Jesus’ healing of the deaf man (today’s Gospel). Still, the mission of the Lord is more than healing the physically infirm. In fact, when Jesus heals the deaf and the blind it is also a symbol of spiritual healing. He came to redeem us by the offering of Himself for our sins, and to open our eyes and our ears to the truth of His teaching.

With the arrival of Fall, we will soon begin the Diocesan Annual Appeal for 2021-2022. Our parishioners will be receiving (in several weeks) information about the Annual Appeal, along with their pledge form. For 24 years now the Diocesan Appeal has proven to be an excellent means of providing for the many needs of the local, national, and worldwide Church. As in the past, any gifts to the Annual Appeal which exceed the parish target amount will be returned to our parish for our needs. We received back $39,751 from last year’s Appeal! Look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves which is yours in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 2:3-5) Pray for the success of the Diocesan Annual Appeal. Pray also that God will give each of us a generous heart as we seek to meet the many needs of the Church in our parish, the Diocese of La Crosse, and throughout the world.

Though we have already begun our RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) formation classes, it is not too late to join. These classes are for any person who is not baptized, or is baptized in another Christian church, and who is interested in becoming a full member of the Catholic Church. Please call the parish office to register.

May God bless you!
Fr. Schaller 

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