October 13, 2019

Mission:          On Thursday, October 3,  at Saint Peter Basilica, Vatican City, Jeffrey M. Craig, along with 29 classmates from the Pontifical North American College, was ordained a Transitional Deacon.  Deacon Craig is the son of Glenn and Laurie Craig of Warrendale and parishioners of Saint Alphonsus.  He attended Saint Alphonsus Elementary School, Quigley High School and Duquesne University.  He is continuing in his theological studies at The Pontifical North American College in Rome.
     Rejoice for the “yes” of these young men who have accepted the Lord’s gift and calling.  Please remember Jeff in your prayers as he continues to prepare for Ordination to the Priesthood of Jesus Christ in June, 2020, at Saint Paul Cathedral, Pittsburgh.  We will continue to share information on Deacon Craig’s journey to priesthood as it becomes available.  Congratulations, Jeff!
 
Spring Time in the Fall!
     The “Fall Kick-off” of the high school faith formation took place recently.  It was great to have about 60 teenagers participate in this event.   Praise God!  Thanks to our young people for their interest, and to parents for your support.  Under the leadership of the Holy Spirit and David Piccirilli, coordinator of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the Catholic Community of Wexford, we can expect even greater things to take place – mainly, making disciples for Jesus. 
     The high school formation program follows the Life Teen Ministry Program which is used in parishes across the nation and countries around the world.  It provides a healthy balance of worship, education, service and social events.  Young people appreciate these different components along with the relationships that are fostered with their peers. 
     Parents, for the sake of dear children, please continue to direct and encourage your children to take part in the various faith formation options within our parish community.  A relationship with Jesus and the experience of his love are the real building blocks of life on earth and eternally in heaven.  It’s a privilege for us to work with your children and help them prepare for their future with confidence in God!  For more information about the great things that are happening with all the faith formation programs in our community, visit us at saintalphonsuswexford.org or stalexis.org.

A Time for the Shepherds to be Shepherded
     Thanks to everyone who prayed for Father Joe, myself, and all the priests of the Diocese along with Bishop Zubik and Bishop Waltersheid during the Triennial Convocation of Priests.  For me, it was four days of being spiritually fed while having time to enjoy the company of brother priests.
    The speakers included Thomas Cardinal Collins, Archbishop of Toronto and Father Michael E. Gaitley, MIC, author of 33 Days to Morning Glory, a-do-it yourself retreat in preparation for Marian consecration.  Presentations focused on the importance of prayer, the beauty and universal nature of the Psalms, the necessity for sacrificing ourselves on behalf of the people we have been called to serve, the strength of the Lord in the midst of our challenges, the role of Mary in our lives, and the victory that is ours in the Lord Jesus.
     These days offered inspiration and renewal. As your priests, we renew our commitment to serve you to the best of our ability while being faithful to God in what is asked of us.  Please continue to pray for priests.  Know the difference your loving, prayerful presence makes in our lives.  Thank you!
 
Maintenance:
 
Mark Your Calendar
     The annual Saint Alexis Day of Caring/Fall-Clean-up is scheduled for Saturday, October 26 following the 8:00 a.m. Mass and will continue throughout the day.  We need your help!  Join us in caring for what has been entrusted to us.  This semi-annual event promises to be rewarding; working with fellow parishioners and experiencing the satisfaction of what we are able to accomplish together.  This year, we hope to remove seasonal flowers and provide a general winterization of the grounds.  All families and individuals are welcome!
     We can use a pick-up truck or two, steel rakes, gas weed wackers, straight-edge shovels and gardening tools in general.  Any amount of time you can give will be most appreciated!  Please RSVP by calling the Parish Center at 724.935.4343, extension 221, so that we gauge the scope of projects and have an adequate amount of refreshments available for our guests. 
     In the event of rain, we will convene at the same time on Saturday, November 3.  Thank you for your participation and practice of good stewardship!