Today, we celebrate the feast day of Saint Phoebe the Deacon. Saint Paul entrusted Phoebe with the Letter to the Romans, which she successfully delivered to the people of Rome. Phoebe’s delivery was unlikely to resemble a USPS drop–off. Phoebe most likely stayed with the Romans and helped explain the concepts in the letter. Have you ever been in a situation in which a woman, perhaps your mother, dear wife, or daughter, or even a talented presenter, shed light on a previously confusing or challenging topic and you experienced an epiphany of realization? Perhaps your eyes started seeing clarity and your ears began having understanding. It happens all the time when our Priests present homilies on the Word of God, and some women of faith also serve God by helping us understand concepts.
In 2020, as our parish was coming to better recognize and reckon with anti-Black racism in the wake of George Floyd’s killing, anti-Asian hate during the global COVID pandemic, and historical issues of racial injustice and violence in society and the Catholic Church, a diverse and committed group of community members formed St. Ignatius’ Antiracism Committee. The Committee's established purpose was to form St. Ignatius into a community rooted in racial justice and inclusion, guided by the principles of prayerful discernment and action. This year–approximately four years since George Floyd was killed on May 25, 2020– we seek to re-introduce ourselves to our fellow parishioners as your “ARC”.
The name “deacon” comes from the Greek work “diakonia”—one who waits at table—and may have existed as a secular activity before it was made an office in the Church. Yet, this was the term the Apostles chose when they wished to appoint delegates to carry out the practical duties which they did not have time to do. The first deacons, appointed in Acts of the Apostles, all represent Jews of the diaspora (i.e., “Greeks”) whose widows were not being treated fairly in the distribution of goods. But, while ministry to the poor has always been a crucial element of the diaconate, these administrators were also appointed to proclaim the gospel, to stand in the place of the Apostles, and, often, to give their lives in witness of Christ. Indeed, the first martyr identified in Scripture is the deacon Stephen, who is stoned to death for his witness to Christ and whose feast is celebrated the day after Christmas every year.
Step into a transformative journey of self-discovery and societal reflection with a September-November program inspired by the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. You are invited to profoundly and prayerfully consider how race and xenophobia co-exist, especially to help our parish strengthen our commitments to racial justice and sanctuary. No previous involvement, knowledge, or training is required. You just need an open heart and a courageous spirit!
In honor of her grandmother, Nadya Williams, the granddaughter of Willemina Ogterop, recently visited the Parish offices. Nadya Williams is a life-long peace activist deeply inspired by the peace activism, creativity and passion of her grandmother. As testament to this aspect of her grandmother's life, it is noteworthy, and recently learned, that she donated three works of art to India, two of which can be found on public display
Welcome back to USF! St. Ignatius Parish is excited to invite you to get involved with our vibrant community. We are looking for volunteer students to help out around the church in a variety of ways. We have roles such as serving as a catechist, helping with the youth group, and assisting as acolytes, lectors, and sacristans. This is a wonderful opportunity to make a meaningful impact and grow within our parish community. Whether you have a passion for teaching, guiding youth, or participating in our liturgical services, there is a place for you here at St. Ignatius Parish.
For more information, reach out to Tom Fregoso at the Youth Ministry to discuss the various volunteer roles and how you can get involved. This is a great chance to meet fellow parishioners and classmates as well as finding the perfect fit for your interests and talents.
Though there are weeks left in the summer, the calendar page has turned to August, which has us looking to the year that lies ahead. I am very excited about all that God has in store for us. Tom Fregoso, our Director of Youth Ministry, is beginning his second year, and with the groundwork he has laid in creating relationships with our youth and their families, I am very eager to see all that will come about with and for our youth. Maggie Warner starts her new role as Director of Pastoral Ministries. I am enthusiastic about working and dreaming with her and the lay leadership of the parish, especially as we lean into Pope Francis’s synodal model of Church, listening more deeply to discover/discern how the Spirit is moving in the hearts and lives of the members of our faith community. Please join me in my prayers for St. Ignatius Parish as we embark on the new year, expectant of all that God will give!
Join the St. Ignatius Parish Community as a Liturgical Volunteer!
St. Ignatius Parish warmly invites you to get involved with our liturgical community. We are currently seeking volunteer students to serve in various liturgical roles, including altar servers and lay readers. This opportunity is open to students from 6th grade through 12th grade.
By participating in servers and readers, you will have the chance to assist in our liturgical services. Your role will be crucial in fostering a deeper spiritual connection among our young parishioners and enhancing the overall worship experience at St. Ignatius Parish.
Altar Server Training Sessions
To prepare you for these roles, we have scheduled three Altar Server Training sessions:
August 25: 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM (6th graders and up)
September 22: 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM (6th graders and up)
October 6: 3:30 PM - 4:45 PM (aimed at Confirmation youth, but all 6th graders and older are welcome)
For more information, please reach out to Tom Fregoso. He can provide details about the role of Liturgical Youth Minister and how you can get involved. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow parishioners, make a positive impact on the youth, and contribute your talents to our community.
We look forward to embarking on this rewarding journey with you!