Share the Joy of Christ

10-18-2015Weekly ReflectionFr. Bing Colasito

It’s our Oktoberfest weekend, the biggest evangelization event of St. Rose Parish. There are many attractions in the Oktoberfest 2015, some are new and many are returning attractions that have captivated, entertained, brought joy, and excitement or have just been informative and formative in nature. The planning, organizing and mobilization of such a grand event is just so unbelievable, full of love and the spirit of Christian discipleship. On behalf of the parish, I extend my sincere gratitude and warmest congratulations to all; the Oktoberfest Committee 2015, our exhibitors, Ministry Booths, fun shows and games, entertainers, and all who have unselfishly volunteered their time, talents and treasures. Special thanks to the servantleaders Jeff and Kristin Smith, Oktoberfest 2015 Co-Chairmen and their team of committee heads.

The St. Rose Mission Statement 2015 encapsulates this Oktoberfest evangelization “theme” if I may say: A Welcoming and Joyful Community Committed to Discipleship Igniting and Strengthening Faith in Christ and the Celebration of God’s Gifts. Our St. Rose Community welcomes the entire Phoenix North Valley: Desert Hills, Anthem, New River, Black Canyon and all the different communities to our annual Oktoberfest - to share the joy of our Catholic Christian community, to meet and be with, to serve, and to provide families moments of fun, entertainment, food or just being together as a family. We wish to share the joy of Christ, the joy of discipleship, the joy of our faith and celebrate God’s gift of community and discipleship.

In the Gospel this Sunday (Mk. 10:35-45), two of Jesus’ disciples approached him with an unusual request, a place of glory, “the honor of sitting beside him at His glory, one at His right and the other at His left.” They have forgotten the two important aspect of discipleship: 1. That Jesus is already with us, and His presence is always a place of honor. 2. In the Kingdom of Jesus, “the first will be last, and the last will be the first.” Thus, the place of honor is not in fame and power, but in the heart of those who serve. This Oktoberfest 2015, we want to honor and celebrate the presence of Jesus in you, and we would like to joyfully and heartily serve you with our brand of Christian hospitality.

Be in God

Fr. Bing

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