Dear Parishioners:
Every year, parishes within the archdiocese are asked to report on the spiritual and financial welfare of the parish. I also would like to report to you how Annunziata fulfilled its ministry this past year. This week I would like to share with you what has occurred sacramentally in our parish and in the next few weeks on our financial activities.
To begin with, Annunziata parish is blessed with members who care for each other and strive for holiness in their lives. This is evident in how you speak about each other and your concern for each other’s welfare.
Daily the Eucharist is celebrated here at Annunziata. Regularly, 30-40 people attend our 7:00 AM Liturgy. The Mass is our greatest prayer act; you might consider attending a daily Mass. Also, Eucharistic devotion occurs daily in our church.
Likewise, the rosary is recited daily and Marian Perpetual Help devotions occur every Tuesday.
This year our community was blessed and enriched through the following sacraments:
Baptism: 32 children and 1 adult entered into our faith community through the words spoken and the sacramental symbol of water; also, 1 new member entered our Church through reception at the Easter Vigil.
Communion: 16 children received the Eucharist for the first time this past year.
Confirmation: 29 eighth-grade students and 2 adults entered into full communion through the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Matrimony: 9 couples exchanged their vows with each other and received God’s blessing as they celebrated their love and commitment to each other. The fidelity of a married couple is a wonderful reminder of God’s loving relationship with us.
The sacraments of Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick are available daily. Confession is heard during the week and again on Saturday before the 5 PM liturgy. Anointing of the sick takes place at special services and when requested.
Our parish was also honored to have celebrated the Funeral Liturgies for 22 members of our community.
Our parish PSR also provided religious education for over 100 students from our parish. We likewise provide religious education and sacramental celebrations for the students at our Learning Center.
As you can see, our parish is blessed with many gifts and a vibrant faith. Let us continue to be good stewards of our Time, Talent, and Treasure as we support each other on our faith journey. Anyone interested in being a minister here at the Church of the Annunziata should contact the parish office. We have much to thank the Lord and each other for; let us continue to pray for one another.
Blessings!
Msgr. John Shamleffer