Congratulations to Deacon David LaMar, ordained this Saturday in Sioux City at the Cathedral. He has been preparing for this moment for some time, alongside his wife Mary and their daughters. We welcome his ministry, his love of God, and the hope he brings to the community of St. Malachy parish, and beyond. His ordination and first Mass assisting on the altar poignantly occurs on this feast of Christ’s Body and Blood, Corpus Christi Sunday. You and your family are a blessing, David!

Movies abound on all subjects, and the ‘streaming’ capabilities have given us all an opportunity to watch old ones and those recently released. Back in the dark days of VCR, limited channels and rental fees for late returns, our seminary rector forced us to watch an artsy, foreign language film none of us heard of previously. We would have gladly watched “Top Gun” again, however our Rector, Fr. Kevin Seasoltz, was persistent. For two hours we sat through “Babette’s Feast,” enduring subtitles, a very slow moving plot, no action scenes. But the ending scenario brought out the meaning in which no other film could possibly do. A sumptuous meal was prepared for the squabbling family and relatives, and Babette understood the subtle transformation she desired with each dish served. A brilliant theologian in his own right, Fr. Kevin understood the possibilities within the Eucharist beyond misunderstandings of the “real presence,” and who could receive this Sacrament. He too wanted us to realize the subtle transformation possible within the grace of the Eucharist received and shared. Such possibility within our Eucharist - the Body and Blood of Christ Jesus - is aptly described in the review of the movie’s ending scene: “Unmistakably, reconciliation. . .occurred around the dinner table, where Babette [prepared]. Her feast renewed friendships, restored love, and revived the harmony of the community. No one, in the end, can ignore the transcendent power. . . .”

Today, Corpus Christi Sunday, we gratefully acknowledge the immeasurable gift of this Sacrament - of meal and sacrifice - we are invited to receive; more importantly, to reflect on the grace possible through this Sacrament to renew, restore, revive, reconcile, and receive the “transcendent power.” We are invited to share His presence in the Eucharist no less than did Peter or the beloved disciple or the other apostles seated at that table of the Last Supper. "If angels could be jealous of men, they would be so for one reason: Holy Communion." (St. Maximilian Kolbe)

Our “Welcome Back” weekend is here with the extension of hospitality to all who come through our doors for the Eucharist, and those who share in our parish community who are unable to join us. Many volunteers have shared their time and hope for the welcoming festivities following each Mass in our respective parishes. Please feel welcome to share in the food, refreshments, activities, and camaraderie after each Mass this weekend. Regardless if parishioner or visitor, may the Eucharist we receive, the prayers we share and the hope that inspires us following a very different year, allow us to celebrate the renewal of our parish community - coming together as we have in the past.

Through the generosity of a parishioner we have obtained the equipment necessary to again live stream a Sunday Mass each weekend especially for parishioners who are unable to attend, those in our care centers, those who may be out of town. If all goes well we will tape and stream on our parish website the weekly 10am Sunday Mass, with other significant liturgies throughout the year.

As we continue to safeguard the wellbeing of parishioners and visitors who participate in the Eucharist and parish gatherings, the Sacrament of Anointing can again be offered during Mass once a month or every other month. Fr. Ross and I are always available to offer this Sacrament when requested, regardless. Offered during a Mass this Sacrament provides an opportunity for others to receive this healing grace whether they are struggling physically, emotionally or mentally. More details and dates forthcoming.

Entering the month of June we realize how little time we have to share Walter Pugh and Deacon Darwin Messerly’s presence and faith. Our parishes have benefitted from their faith and outreach over the years that have has made a difference in the lives of many. I’m hopeful some individuals will step forward to help our parish with our youth, Religious Ed program, and the maintenance and upkeep of our parish grounds and facilities. If anyone has questions concerning these two positions are interested, please contact the parish office.

God Bless,
Fr. Tim

“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.” (Anonymous)