By Father Fred Edlefsen

Many blessing to all of you as we journey into September. Special blessings to our youth and their families in the CCD catechism program, as they learn more about the truth and beauty of our Catholic faith. Many of them will be preparing for sacraments as well, especially First Confession, First Communion, and Confirmation. Also, blessings to the adults who are joining OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults). They too are preparing for Baptism, Confirmation, and First Communion at the Easter Vigil Mass, which will take place on April 4th, 2026.

Everyone is invited our Parish Picnic on Sunday, September 14 after the 12:00 PM Mass. Invite your neighbors and friends too! Thanks to the Knights of Columbus, our Hispanic parishioners, and the Hospitality Team for making this happen! We will have a great cookout with hamburgers, hots dogs and taquitos and other treats and fun for everyone. Hope to see you there!

September is Commitment Month at Our Lady of Lourdes. I invite everyone to consider increasing their weekly or monthly Offertory Giving to keep our parish financially sound, so we can continue our Mission to welcome people into God’s Grace through Mass, sacraments, faith formation, marriage preparation, serving the needy, and a hospitable and welcoming parish community.

In a financially healthy parish, funds raised during regular Sunday offertory (first collection) should cover operating costs. Otherwise, the parish needs to dip into “unrestricted saving” to pay for basic operations. Over the past few years, steps have been taken to narrow our operating deficit, and we have made progress. I will preach all Masses on the weekend of September 14 and give more information about that. However, I encourage everyone to increase their regular offertory (first collection) giving – especially through our secure online giving option with Parish Soft (formerly Faith Direct). Just press the GIVE button on our website or use the QR code in the bulletin or church entrance. Peace and blessings to everyone, in Christ!