February is African American Heritage Month. All are invited to a special Mass and celebration at Saint Catherine of Siena-Saint Lucy and Saint Giles Parish in Saint Giles Church on Saturday, February 14, at 4:30 PM.

Why is it important? Because African American History is Catholic History. The faith, courage, music, and witness of African American Catholics have deeply shaped the Church in the United States and continue to enrich our worship today. Are you aware that one of our saints in the making is Venerable Augustus Tolton, an African American Catholic. who carried the gospel with courage, creativity, and hope in the face of injustice? He was the first openly Black Catholic priest in the United States and served as a parish priest in Chicago.

This celebration is not just about honoring the past, but about recognizing the living Body of Christ among us now. It reminds us that the Church is truly catholic - universal - and that we are strongest when every voice and gift is honored. This annual celebration was a long-standing tradition at Saint Catherine of Siena-Saint Lucy. Our recent participation in this celebration is one of the many blessings received as a result of the unification of our parishes.

Why should you attend? In a time of division and injustice, gathering for prayer is a powerful act of unity and hope. This Mass will invite us to listen, give thanks, and renew our commitment to dignity, justice, and love. Let’s come together to honor the gifts of African American Catholics, to show that we stand for dignity, justice, and inclusion, and that we believe the Eucharist makes us one. Come celebrate, pray, and grow together our communities of faith, hope, and love in Christ on Saturday, February 14. A light reception will follow at the back of the Church, allowing time for those celebrating Valentine’s Day to still go out and have dinner. ALL ARE WELCOME!

At a time when so many are upset about the state of the world around us and the undignified treatment of God’s beloved children, we need to pray for peace. At a recent leadership meeting the following prayer was shared. It was suggested that this prayer be published in the bulletin to be prayed by all. My suggestion is that if possible everyone pray this prayer each day at noon, or at another time that best fits your schedule. Isn’t it good to think that by sending this powerful prayer into the universe we are all doing something constructive.

A PRAYER FOR PEACE

"Lord Jesus Christ, Who is called the Prince of Peace, Who are Yourself our peace and reconciliation, Who so often said, Peace to you,” GRANT US PEACE. Make all men and women witnesses of truth, justice, and brotherly love. Banish from their hearts whatever might endanger peace. Enlighten our rulers so they may guarantee and defend the great gift of peace. May all people of the earth become brothers and sisters. May longed for peace blossom forth and reign over us all. Amen." - By Pope Saint John XXIII

Finally, a real estate update: The Archdiocese has been in contact with me and our operation directors, and the former Saint Edmund School building will most likely be publicly listed for sale in the next week. They plan to connect with interested parties and will keep us informed. At the same time, they are in discussions with another interested party about renting the Saint Catherine of Siena-Saint Lucy Church building while also considering other options. Both properties are being managed at the same time. The process has been slow, and no decisions have been made. I promise to keep you updated.

With you a Christian. For you, a priest.

Fr. Carl Morello 
Pastor
Ascension and St. Edmund Parish
St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy and St. Giles Parish