“We have roots of joy, and we can also be roots of joys to others … a joy that brings roots.”

– Pope Francis

As we sit down to complete our stewardship form for the coming year, it is worth taking a moment to put ourselves in the shoes of the more than 800,000 Catholic youth who came to Lisbon, Portugal, in August 2023 to hear Pope Francis at World Youth Day. He encouraged them to imitate the Virgin Mary, who is a “missionary of joy,” and, like her, to “make haste” to spread that joy with others.

Just as the Holy Father called upon those young pilgrims to “not be afraid” as they live out their faith by helping others, we can follow in that same spirit by committing ourselves to sharing our time, talent and treasure as members of St. Agnes. Each opportunity to volunteer and serve is a time to share smiles and laughter, meet new friends, encourage our children to grow in new roles, and share in our commitment to help those in need around us.

Let us never forget that our St. Agnes community is also the root of our joy, the ground in which our Catholic faith is nourished. In Matthew 18, Jesus told his disciples, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” Through lifelong stewardship we allow Christ’s message to grow and flower within us.

Thank you for taking the time to fill out your stewardship form and recommit yourself and your family to our parish.

Submit your form by December 31, 2023, to be eligible for one of three prizes to be drawn on January 6, 2024.

• 1st prize – $50 gift card to 80/20 @ Kaelin’s
• 2nd prize – $25 gift card to Shenanigans Irish Grille
• 3rd prize – $15 gift card to Sunergos Coffee