Did You Know?

This has been part of the announcement-time before Mass for many decades at St. Andrew’s, and is, in fact, an important part of “preparing for Mass”.
We are not at Mass as isolated individuals, simply present with a number of other individuals who happen to be attending the same Mass. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that Christ is truly Present in every Mass in four tangible ways: First, in the Holy Eucharist (Present with us, Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity); Second, in the proclaimed Word; Third, in the person of the Priest/Celebrant; and Fourth – and no less important – in the Community itself (the Faithful gathered for the Mass): “Where two or three are gathered in My Name, there am I.”  

And so, having a sense of the whole Community, which is gathering together at the Lord’s invitation, (“this family which You, Lord, have summoned”) is very important
in becoming aware of and responsive to the Community and discouraging the “privatizing” the Sacred Liturgy.
The following is an email received this week: “My name is Cathy. My mother and I attended the 8:00am Mass on Palm Sunday. I wanted to let you know how comfortable and homey St. Andrew's is. We felt like we belonged as soon as we entered the church. We enjoyed Mass and the people around us were very friendly as you welcomed us before Mass began.” 

Take the few minutes to greet those around you – especially visitors – and welcome them to share the celebration of the Holy Mass with us.
Shouldn’t every Catholic feel “at home” when entering a Catholic church?
 

As you know, each year, we send our Ash Wednesday Offering each year to the San Solano (Franciscan) Mission serving the Tohono O’odham Reservation (west of Tucson)
We received the following “Thank you” -- 

Dear Parishioners of St. Andrew the Apostle Parish – Thank you for your astoundingly generous Collection for the San Solano Missions! It is a HUGE help at a time when our expenses are rising, repairs crying out, and fundraising not so simple! We are so grateful for your partnership and active interest in our Mission! You are in our grateful prayers! God bless you all this Holy Week and Easter!
Fr. John Gibbons, OFM 

You are making a difference in the lives of many, many people as your live your Faith with joy, generosity and gratitude!