On September 5 and 6, we will join with congregations across the nation in lifting up and honoring the sacred link between work and human dignity through the initiative Labor in the Pulpit. This is an opportunity to educate ourselves about the issues that impact workers, especially those affected by unchecked technological change, and reflect on the true meaning of Labor Day. A guest speaker will join our Saturday Vigil and Sunday 8 am, 10 am, and 5 pm Masses to share a few words during our pulpit announcements on how to be in solidarity with workers.

As you know, I close my pastoral letters to you with the words Oremus pro invicem – “Let us pray for one another.” For me, it is more than a sign-off. Praying for one another is one of the ways we live our life together as a parish. Every week, people ask me, one of our associate pastors, or a member of our staff to pray for someone they love: a parent facing surgery, a child beginning college, a marriage going through a difficult time, someone who has died. Sometimes the request is simply, “Please pray for me.” It is a privilege to be entrusted with those prayers.

We are excited to bring our community together for this special season of ecumenical solidarity! Each year from September 1 to October 4, the Christian family unites for this worldwide celebration of prayer and action to protect our common home. It is a special season where Catholics celebrate God as Creator, and acknowledge Creation as the divine continuing act that summons us as collaborators to love and care for the gift of all that is created. Followers of Christ from around the globe, share a common call to care for Creation. We are co-creatures and part of all that God has made. Our well-being is interwoven with the well-being of the Earth.