August 21, 2016

Dear Parish Family,

After listening to Jesus’s preaching in regard to the kingdom of God and the many obstacles or distractions which put at risk our salvation, someone in the crow asked Him, “Lord, will only a few people be saved?” Immediately a respond came from Jesus, “Strive to enter through the narrow gate. For many, I tell you, will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough.” The answer was short and clear, the door is open for everyone but it does not mean that everyone will be saved. We must do merits in this life in order to be recipients of the great gift of eternal life.

As we listen to Jesus’ words in today’s gospel we come to understand that his love for every person in this world is equal. He is willing to shower every person with his Divine Mercy. In fact, he offered himself on the cross as a ransom for all. The question is am I willing to accept and embrace his Divine Mercy? We must accept God in our lives through an open profession of faith. We must seek and ask for his mercy. We must strive to live a life according to his plan for us.

The devotion to the Divine Mercy of Jesus is so beautiful. As I get to know more about this devotion and grow more in love for this devotion I learned that it is about acknowledging God’s great love for us. It is about his willingness to cleans us from our sins and faults. It is about his willingness to offer his very self to us in the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. I also notice that this devotion is also very close the heart of the people of St. Patrick. We are looking forward to share this beautiful devotion to the Community of Rochelle this weekend. For this purpose we will host a booth in downtown Rochelle on Saturday and Sunday. The St. Patrick’s Float, which will accompany us through the parade, is also dedicating to the Divine Mercy.

God bless you all.
​Father Lopez

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