A word about Annunciation School
Regardless of who we are, our hearts are broken last week as we heard the news of the terrible shootings at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis. It is natural for us in this moment to attempt to put some reasons, and even though there may be clues and evidence that point to one reason or another, it’s important for us to focus on the horrible acknowledgement of the victims, those who died, were injured, the children, teachers and families whose lives have been forever altered by unspeakable terror in a place of safety and refuge, peace and hope. If we fail to put the children first in any discussion, we are failing miserably.
To those who disparage the call for prayers, I am reminded of the words of Dr. Martin Luther King that in all times, particularly times of crisis, doubt and fear, the church is not where we go to- it is where we come from, where we begin. Catholics- particularly emboldened and encouraged by the reception of the Eucharist and all people of good will- we must be witnesses and in Christ, transforming this all-too violent world. Christ is the King of our world- and first and last, He is the Prince of Peace. It is time, well past the time, to proclaim the end of this nightmare.
It has been made quite clear that laws aren’t working, and more guns won’t work, either. This crisis, these issues, are bigger than any government, any force on this earth. Too many children have been exposed to the cruelty that adults inflict on each other and themselves and to them, and in their name, in God’s name, together, we must find a way to bring that peace to the hearts and souls of those who misplace their anger, their frustration, their fear upon the lives of the most innocent and vulnerable in our midst.
This is our mission and our challenge, to bring Christ to the deeply divided, angry and troubled country- to defend the vulnerable, to protect each and every life, and to speak for justice and mercy and love as Christ commands and expects. In Deuteronomy 30, God challenges Israel to take a stand, to choose life. May our actions, based in our prayers, bring about a new revolution of hope, mercy, and life. If we fail, we have all failed, ourselves, our country and our children. May our lives, directed to hope and mercy, turn the tide and bring about that revolution.
Mary, Queen of peace, comfort of the afflicted, pray for us.
Please pray for the children of Annunciation school.
– Fr. John Sheridan
The Hope for Life Conference
The Hope for Life Conference will be held on Saturday, Oct. 4th at the Track at New Balance in Brighton from 8 AM-4 PM. All are invited to this special event featuring The Chosen’s Jonathan Roumie, Mother Olga of the Sacred Heart, Mass by Archbishop Henning, music by the Vigil Project, and much more.
The event is a collaboration of the Archdiocesan Pro-Life Office, the Daughters of Mary of Nazareth, and the Men of Divine Mercy Prayer Group. Please join us in honoring the sanctity and beauty of life.
For more information and tickets, visit hopeforlifeboston.com.
22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Whether it is singing, dancing, talent or politics, when people judge others it is often more a popularity contest than a real
assessment of ability. Remember Susan Boyle? What a great surprise to hear her angelic voice, especially after everyone snickered when she came on stage. No one would have ever guessed how talented she really was, but it only took a few moments for people to realize just how great a voice she had. People make snap judgments about others based on external appearances rather than wait and see who the person really is or how good their skills might be. It is easier, even if inaccurate, to look at age, dress, looks or personality and assume that is all one can know or needs to know.
People make spiritual and personal judgments too. We look at someone and assume to know how good they are, what kind of person they must be or what their life must be like. We might not think that the poorly dressed man is a saint, or the wealthy woman is a mystic. But God knows. He invites everyone to His table, includes everyone in His family and loves everyone with an unconditional love. Faulty appearances can mask a thousand graces and a holy soul. See others with the eyes of God and you will undoubtedly see a glimpse of Heaven.
~James Gaffney, © 2010 Karides Lic. to Pilot Bulletins
Our Lady of the Rosary
October 7, 2025 at 6:30PM
Holy Rosary Shrine, Lawrence
28 Union St, Lawrence, MA 01840
Mass, Rosary, Benediction
https://www.hrslawrence.org/holy-rosary-shrine-named-officialjubilee-year-pilgrimage-site/