(Final remark and thank you after the installation Mass)

On this Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, we are drawn back to the Jordan River, where Heaven opens and the Father’s voice is heard: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” As Bishop-elect Dai Bui reminded us in his homily, these words were not spoken only for Jesus on the banks of the Jordan. They reveal a foundational truth of our faith: before we are called to do anything, before we are sent on mission, before any responsibility entrusted to us, we are first and always beloved by the Father.

Dear parish family,

As we step into the Year of Our Lord 2026, my heart is filled with gratitude for each of you and for the many ways God’s grace continues to shape and strengthen our parish family. The past year has brought its share of joys and challenges, but through it all the Lord has remained faithful. Your presence at Mass, your generosity, your service, your dedication, and your quiet, unseen sacrifices testify to a vibrant and persevering faith. Truly, you are the heart of this community!

Dear Parish family,

Last week, I received a Christmas card from my spiritual director featuring a simple yet beautiful image of the newborn Jesus with Mary and Joseph in the manger, crowned by a shining star and the Scripture verse: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). That single line has stayed with me, quietly stirring my heart with hope throughout these days of Advent.

Thanksgiving is truly a special day in our nation. We often delight in familiar traditions—colorful autumn leaves, gathering with family and friends, the excitement of parades and football, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal together. These warm memories remind us of the goodness and love that fill our lives.

Excerpt: Today’s young families face unique joys and challenges. Balancing careers, parenting, and faith formation can often feel overwhelming. Our ministry seeks to create a place of belonging — where no family walks alone. Through prayer, fellowship, and practical support, we hope every parent and child will experience the warmth of our parish family and the steadfast love of God.

Dear Parish Family,

Over the past several weeks, our parish has been prayerfully engaged in our Parish Improvements Campaign. With gratitude for the support already received, we are making steady progress on three important projects to maintain and improve our parish facilities:

• Heating and Cooling Systems: Installing new heat pumps in Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament Chapel and the Social Hall, and repairing the existing unit in Hanley Hall, so that all our spaces remain welcoming and comfortable throughout the year.
• Restroom Renovations: Updating the restrooms near Hanley Hall to provide a more hospitable and accessible environment for our parishioners and guests.
• Roof Repairs: Preserving the welcoming atmosphere of the Upper Room and Hanley Hall through essential roof repairs.

This past week, I had the privilege of joining the priests of the Diocese of Phoenix for our annual convocation in Flagstaff. It was a grace-filled time of prayer, fraternity, and reflection on our shared vocation. Since it was my first convocation, I especially treasured the chance to meet many priests from across the diocese—sharing stories of ministry, encouraging one another in our mission, and rejoicing in the laughter and friendship that strengthen our brotherhood.