Carrying Summer’s Blessings into a Season of Faith and Service

Praying for the Annunciation Parish Community

We continue to mourn the heartbreaking violence that occurred at Annunciation Parish in Minneapolis last week. That afternoon, I shared that what should have been a joyful moment to celebrate the beginning of a new school year became a tragedy that is difficult to comprehend. We mourn the innocent lives of the children lost. We pray for healing for the students, families, educators, and the community experiencing indescribable pain. 

I reached out to our pastors and parish leaders to remind them of the importance of regularly assessing the safety of those attending our schools and Masses. The safety of students, faculty, and families is paramount. To assist them, I shared safety and security guidance that we have received for use in parishes and schools.

I ask you to join me in prayer: that God may bring comfort to those who grieve, strength to those who are recovering, and peace to a community forever shaken by horrific violence. Let us keep in our prayers – and take meaningful, productive action – to ensure the safety of all children, educators, and parish communities throughout our country.

How Your Support is Helping Hope Light the Way

“They that hope in the LORD will renew their strength, they will soar on eagles’ wings; They will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint” (Isaiah 40:31).

With my sincere gratitude on behalf of those served by our many ministries, I am pleased to share that more than 14,000 from across the Diocese supported this year’s Catholic Appeal, raising nearly $4.2 million. This remarkable generosity strengthens our Church and brings hope to countless individuals and families in need.

For over 80 years, the Catholic Appeal has sustained critical ministries that serve our region. These ministries feed the hungry, provide shelter to the homeless, comfort the sick, and provide opportunities for a faith-based education. The Appeal also supports our retired senior priests and the formation of the next generation of priests. Each day throughout the Diocese, your gifts provide the financial resources to perform the work of Christ here in Southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod, and the islands. 

I thank you for your commitment to the many ministries of the Diocese. Your faith and generosity ensure that we can continue to work to meet both the spiritual and physical needs of those in need, sharing the light of hope through Christ wherever it is most needed. May God bless you for your continued support.

Grateful for the Gift of Summer

I had a wonderful day in August with seminarians and those in the discernment process during Summer Seminarian Convocation Day. The day included a Mass, cookout, and yard games, one of many joyful moments from this past summer.

As summer concludes, I am grateful for the simple joys this season brought. My daily walks have been a time of peace and prayer, a chance to notice the beauty of God’s creation. I’ve also enjoyed the gift of gathering with friends, especially grilling on warm evenings. As we move into the busy months ahead, may we carry that sense of gratitude and renewal with us.

Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

On Monday, September 8, we will celebrate the  Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a reminder that God has a plan for each of us. On this day, during which we celebrate the birth of Mary, we also give thanks for Mary’s life, her faith, and her responding “yes” to God. Her nativity reminds the faithful that every life has a purpose in God’s plan. The Readings for this Feast Day – We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose – are a reminder to trust in that plan.

Sincerely,

+Bishop da Cunha