Looking back at the weekly messages of Father Paul Counce, first published in The Carpenter, our weekly Parish Bulletin
Published: June 26, 2016
The 43 “pilgrims” from St. Joseph Cathedral Parish who bussed to New Orleans last Saturday on a day-trip will attest: we had a great time! We visited 4 historic churches – St. Mary’s Italian Church at the Old Ursuline Convent in the French Quarter, St. Augustine Church in the Treme neighborhood, and St. Patrick’s Church on Camp Street (these are three of the four oldest in the archdiocese, after St. Louis Cathedral) and Immaculate Conception Church on Baronne Street (famously known as “The Jesuit Church”). Naturally, their architectures and artworks were inspiring. Yet courtesy of Dr. Lee Leumas, the archdiocesan archivist who joined us, we learned a great deal of the history of the Faith and faithful in the Crescent City. Even more importantly, we got to share in the graces of the sacred places where this faith blossomed and was nourished.
(Speaking of nourishment, we also enjoyed a magnificent Louisiana seafood luncheon at Deanie’s in the French Quarter, too! Maybe that was why the bus was full!)
Thanks are in order for Bobbie Carey and the Development Committee of the Parish, who sponsored the day of fellowship and learning. Special thanks also have to go to Joy and Vic Weston, for they did most of the organizational work for the outing. We’ll certainly be putting together more educational and fun activities like this in the future: look out for them, and take part if you can, for they are things which build and strengthen our Parish community!
The next “community building” event won’t involve traveling out-of-town, registration or fees: we’ll enjoy another Parish Pot-Luck Supper after the 4 pm vigil Mass on Saturday, July 16. Mark your calendar now! If you have a favorite casserole, salad or dessert – or just want to try out that recipe that serves more than your household! – makes plans to come that evening. The conversation at table with fellow parishioners is always just as enjoyable as the food!
Finally, I want to express my thanks to Hal and Carolyn Lancon, who have underwritten our altar flowers in church one weekend each month. Proving the beauty of these floral arrangements is a most generous gift: I know God will richly bless the Lancons … and any other wonderful parishioners who assist with this! (Hint, hint!)
As always, in Christ,
