Dear Parishioners of Saint Polycarp,
The Gospel for this last weekend of July speaks of a miraculous multiplication of the loaves and fish, with which Jesus feeds about five thousand people who came to hear Him (cf Jn 6:1-15). It is important to note the manner in which this miracle takes place. Pope Francis in his Angelus explained, “Jesus does not create the loaves and fishes from nothing, no, but rather He works with what the disciples bring him. One of them says: ‘There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish. But what are they among so many people?’ (v. 9). It is little, it is nothing, but it is enough for Jesus” (July 25, 2021).
The point that Pope Francis wanted to teach us is this: The miracle of the loaves and the fish comes from the people, despite the small quantity. Jesus can do more from the little we have! He can change the little things we have and bring such small things to greater works. All we need to do is to listen to Him and collaborate in His actions.
To make marvelous miracles out of little things brings to my attention of your generosity and love for Jesus and His Church. Your generous contributions and support have brought and built our spiritual family of Saint Polycarp to be a strong community of faith. To be more specific, the contributions to this strong-knitted family of St. Polycarp from our young people cannot be overlooked. Since my arrival to this wonderful family in July 2020, our youth have stepped up to assist with various parochial functions, such as the Marian events, overnight Adoration, music ministry, teaching/assisting catechism, parish Fiesta, Talent Show, summer programs, and etc. To these young people, I owe them my gratitude.
Talking about the upcoming events at our parish, which involve the participation of our young people, I invite you first to participate in the parish Talent Show which takes place on the 23rd of August. The parish intention for the Talent Show is to promote talents, unity, and contribution from our youth ministry. Therefore, I kindly ask all of you, especially parents and grandparents, to promote the spirit of our youth leadership by your active participation in the Talent Show. This event is free, but please register so we know the quantity of food to prepare for you. Your small act of registration and participation brings greater works for our youth.
Lastly, as we conclude the month of July, I invite you to continue to pray and to support our newly arrived priests, Father Luis and Father Nicolaus, and Sister Anh Tram, as they conclude their first month with us.
May God, through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Joseph, and the Patron Saint Polycarp, bless you always. Have a blessed summer!
Father Viet Peter Ho
Pastor