First of all, Happy Mothers’ Day to all moms! Today we remember the mothers, grandmothers, and all women who mentor and care for others with a mother’s heart and love. Many of us have lost our moms so today offers us a chance to call to mind a favorite memory that will bring a smile to our hearts and remind us of their love. Have a blessed day.

I am excited to announce that coming soon we will launch a new website for our parishes. This will happen sometime in late June. It will be a unified online home that brings our Oak Park Catholic Community and Neighbors together while still celebrating the unique gifts and spirit of each individual parish. A talented and dedicated committee consisting of members from each parish site, has been working on this for over a year. This new platform will make it easier to explore what each of our parishes offers, from worship schedules and ministries along with special events and outreach opportunities. At the same time, it will showcase our shared efforts and common ministries, fostering a connection, collaboration, and a deeper sense of unity among our Oak Park Catholic Community and Neighbors. Whether you are looking for parish specific information or ways to engage across Oak Park, everything you need will be easy to find and just a click away. Watch for more news about the website and when you will be able to check it out.

Now to something a little more serious. As your pastor and a spiritual leader, I feel compelled to express my deep disappointment in President Trump’s decision to depict himself recently as the pope. The image was not only inappropriate as we mourn the loss of Pope Francis but deeply disrespectful to the sacred office of the papacy and our faith which it represents. What kind of spiritual leader would I be if I remained silent in the face of such irreverence? We are called to speak truth with love, and while we continue to pray for the president, it is clear that he has lost a sense of decency and right judgement. He needs our continued prayers! Many Bishops have come out to say this was not in good taste, some even asking for an apology to the Catholic Community around the world. My hope and our prayer should be that President Trump be guided back to a path of true humility, respect and moral clarity.

Finally, in contrast, we have Pope Francis who has always led with humility, compassion, and deep concern for those on the margins. And his final gift is no exception. In a powerful gesture of service and solidarity, the Pope has donated the iconic popemobile to be converted into a mobile care unit for those in need in Gaza. The repurposed vehicle will now bring medical aid and comfort to people in remote areas that have been ravaged by war. His mission of mercy will continue as a living legacy for a Pontiff who consistently reminded us that the Church must go out into the streets, serving the poor and the vulnerable with love and compassion. Pope Francis made this his dying wish, that the Catholic non-profit organization Caritas Jerusalem turn his popemobile into a mobile health station for the children of Gaza upholding the fundamental rights and dignity of children. What a legacy!

Have a great week ahead.

With you a Christian. For you a priest.

Father Carl Morello
Pastor
Ascension and St. Edmund Parish
St. Catherine of Siena – St. Lucy and St. Giles Parish