The Missing Piece

by Fr. David Halm, C.S.C.  |  03/10/2024  |  Pastor's Letter

I continue to receive lots of notes and messages from parishioners who attended our parish mission, “The Missing Piece: What Are You Searching For?” that we offered on Feb. 25 - 27. To a person people have expressed gratitude to the Holy Spirit for what we received there. As well, we all owe much thanks to David Portugal, Fr. Andrew, the Faith Formation Office and various parish missionaries who helped to coordinate this. It’s no small project!! Keep your eyes out (and ears tuned) for information on how to participate in “quads” of discipleship.

As you know, this Mission was in English (well, and some Latin chanting...) but we’re already planning a September Mission in Spanish (and probably some Latin chanting…) There will be save-the-date info coming soon!

I suppose you all would expect your pastor to be a “cheerleader” about the Mission - and I am, as well as a participant and recipient in the Spirit’s outpouring of gifts! So, I asked various parishioners to give their response and testimony about the mission:

I went to the Mission not knowing what to expect. What Christ exposed is a profound Love I have for HIM once I surrendered it all. And I wasn’t alone. HE was everywhere. In short. I was overwhelmed by the Holy Spirit. Nick Balderama

God was truly present at the parish mission. He spoke to me through the presenter, the musician and especially through His true presence in the Blessed Sacrament.  I was changed in those three days! I’m so thankful to all of those who worked so hard to make this beautiful and blessed event come to fruition. God is good! Jennifer Fish

Attending the event was a decision I'll forever cherish. It wasn't just an opportunity to deepen our connection with God; it also brought our family closer together. It was a blessing that childcare services were included. For my wife and I it really allowed us to be fully present to take in the scriptures and experience Jesus together. The cookies and coffee at the end didn't hurt either, the kids looked forward to it. We left feeling spiritually refreshed and more united than ever before. Charles Barrett

While words may fall short in fully conveying the profound impact of the moments of the mission, witnessing my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ gazing upon our Lord in adoration was truly remarkable. It was a deeply moving experience that has left an indelible mark on my heart. I earnestly hope that many others will have the opportunity to attend the next mission. Paul Lorenz

The mission at SJV was inspiring and left me in awe of Jesus and our Father. I felt so close to Jesus and saw the power of the Holy Spirit moving in the people who were there. The church community is a wonderful and loving family. Helping with the mission and getting to know the staff and parishioners better was a great experience. I am thankful for the experience. Cori Telzrow

And I didn’t pay anyone to say these things! All from the heart and the Holy Spirit. God bless you all and have a great week, in Christ!

Fr. David Halm
Pastor

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