Easter Challenge #9

MY FAVORITE THREE THINGS ABOUT OUR PARISH:
Welcoming. That was the first thing that stood out at the first mass at St Albert’s we attended. My family moved into the area in 2009, as we looked for a place to live, we attended mass at several parishes. After we left mass, we felt almost anonymous and felt there was something missing. We were surprised to learn of another parish in the heart of Albertville. We went to mass, and it was different, when our family walked through the door we were greeted by many people. Parishioners went out of their way to talk to us and make introductions. We felt like we were family that had been gone for a while and warmly welcomed back. When we left Mass that day, we looked at each other and knew that we had found the parish for us. That welcoming atmosphere still exists at St Alberts. We have gotten to know so many people of the Parish, and they are our spiritual family. When I greet and usher at Mass, I want to make sure that the welcoming spirit continues. It is the simple things like opening the door, greeting with a smile and a hello and saying welcome that can mean so much. I hope that the family that comes to our parish for the first time, has the same experience my family did.

Vibrant Youth. That was something else that we learned about St Albert’s quickly. There were so many programs and opportunities for the youth of the parish to learn and grow in their faith. My children were able to grow in their faith and received their sacraments, mostly because of the wonderful people at the parish helping them. TLC was important to our family. The Mass, Meal, and Message were important to my children but also to my wife and I. Both children have wonderful memories of Extreme Faith Camp. Even though my children are adults now, I still see the vibrant youth community. I count the number of children that go out with Jean for Children’s Liturgy of the Word (usually over 20). I see the young families attending TLC and am amazed at the number of youths receiving their sacraments at St Alberts.  

Spiritual. That is something I came to learn about our Parish. There are many opportunities for me to grow in my faith.  faith. A Welcome Retreat was the lightning rod for my spiritual growth. I took a more active role in our family and became active in the church.  Small groups where we could discuss our beliefs and support each other in our journey, helping to reinforce one another. My spiritual family is there everyday to pray for me,  they support me in my continuing faith journey they challenge me and lead as examples. These are only three things, but there are many more. I tell many people that St Albert’s is my spiritual home and the parishioners are my spiritual family. Together in Christ!