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Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

With hearts full of gratitude, we recall the joyful celebration of our parish’s 50th anniversary last year. What a milestone it was—a grace-filled moment to thank God for blessing us with such a wonderful community, and to remember with deep appreciation the generosity of all benefactors and parishioners who, over the past five decades, have built and sustained this spiritual home. Truly, our parish has grown into a vibrant and prayerful family because of your faithful support and dedication.

Last week after Mass, a young man approached me with a thoughtful question. He said, “Father, I know there are Ph.D.s, M.D.s, and Psy.D.s—but when I saw the abbreviation S.V.D. after your name, I wondered: what kind of doctorate is that?”

I smiled and thanked him for thinking so highly of me! But no, I am not a doctor of any kind. S.V.D. does not stand for a degree—it refers to the religious congregation to which I belong: the Society of the Divine Word (Societas Verbi Divini in Latin), commonly known as the Divine Word Missionaries.

In the Gospel, Jesus says: “Let the children come to Me, and do not forbid them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14)

Children are a precious gift from God, entrusted to our love, care, and guidance. In the Gospels, Jesus welcomes them with open arms, showing His deep affection and reminding us of their special place in the heart of God.

Inspired by the 36th International Youth Festival in Medjugorje

I find it deeply inspiring to see millions of young pilgrims from around the world come together this summer in Medjugorje for the 36th International Youth Festival. You can feel the vibrant energy of so many hearts united by a shared longing—to encounter Christ and rediscover the strength that faith brings. The festival’s theme, “We will go to the house of the Lord” (Psalm 122:1), beautifully reminds us that the journey of faith is not meant to be walked alone, but together—as a community of hope-filled believers.

Dear Holy Spirit Parish Family,

On behalf of our parish leadership, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you for your generosity, prayers, and support for the Central Texas Flood Relief efforts. Your compassion shown through your prayers, monetary donations of 10,864.00 and acts of love has reached far beyond our parish boundaries, bringing hope and healing to those in desperate need.

Beginning in August 2025, our community will begin a monthly Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus during our regular 8:00 AM Mass on the first Friday of each month. I warmly invite you to come and join us in prayer and worship as we honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

This devotion is especially meaningful to me as a member of the congregation of Divine Word Missionaries, founded by St. Arnold Janssen, who had a deep and enduring love for the Sacred Heart.

“Life is God’s gift to us. What we do with it is our gift to God.” – St. Mother Teresa

Each birthday and anniversary is a sacred reminder that life itself is a gift from God—and every year we live, every commitment we honor, is our gift back to Him. These milestones are not only times of celebration, but also opportunities to reflect, give thanks, and renew our dedication to live with purpose, love, and faith.

The Divine Office, also known as the Liturgy of the Hours, is the official daily prayer of the Church. It consists of psalms, Scripture readings, and intercessions, prayed at set times throughout the day. Though often traditionally associated with clergy and religious, the Church strongly encourages all the faithful—including you—to participate in this ancient and powerful form of prayer

When we pray the Divine Office, we unite our voices with the entire Church—Pope, bishops, priests, religious, and laity throughout the world in giving praise and thanks to God.

This past Monday, I received two phone calls I will never forget.

The first was from a friend in Texas, still shaken by the devastation that had unfolded. Her voice trembled as she told me how her family had narrowly escaped the deadly flooding that swept through their region. They had planned a family trip to the Guadalupe River for the Fourth of July holiday weekend. But at the last minute, her husband realized he needed to take care of something.

My name is Fr. Long Phi Nguyen, SVD, a member of the Society of the Divine Word Missionaries (SVD).

It is with deep joy and reverence that I begin this spiritual journey together with you. I am incredibly humbled and honored to join this vibrant parish community, already so rich in faith, love, and service. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Fr. John Clote and Fr. Joseph Vuong for their faithful ministry and the legacy of care, leadership, and devotion they have shared with this community. I recognize the sacred trust that has been placed in me—not to lead from above, but to walk with you, to listen, to learn your stories, to share your burdens, and to celebrate your joys in Christ.