Dear Parishioners:

One of the gifts of the Easter season is baptism. We are blessed to celebrate many Baptisms a year here at the Church of the Annunziata.  The gift of new life is a great gift to our families and our entire parish community. It was wonderful on Easter to have so many families and their children with us at Mass. The sounds of life were joyful for all.

I especially want our Parents of Young Children to know how grateful we are that you and your family have joined us for Mass at Annunziata.  It is our hope that your little ones will grow up to be vital members of our parish family. We are grateful that you begin this journey with us. I and all of our parish family realize that it’s not easy to get your whole family to Mass, and it can be even more difficult to keep all of your little ones still throughout Mass, but your kids should know that this church is their home and we, the community, are all brothers and sisters. They should feel welcome and at home in this place of worship, in the house of God.

We invite you to sing, pray, teach, respond, and explain what is going on at Mass with your children. Our liturgy is full of life and our little ones learn how to worship through you and your participation. Children learn by example and your dedication to coming to Mass and attentiveness to it will be their best lesson.

The presence of children in Mass is a gift to our church and a sign that we are growing! We rejoice that our children are with us, and that our parish welcomes new life! Please remember to keep encouraging our young families, offer your help if they need it, and support them as best you can!

Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14)

Special congratulations to our second graders as they received their First Communion this Saturday April 20!

Easter Blessings!

Msgr John Shamleffer