Dear Fellow Parishioners of Blessed Sacrament and Visitors,

The month of April, which we recently concluded, is traditionally known as the Month of the Eucharist. This sacred designation arises primarily from the gospel readings proclaimed on most Sundays and weekdays of this month, which are predominantly taken from the Gospel of John and focus on the theme of the Bread of Life. This period is also significant as it coincides with the time when many children within our diocese receive their First Holy Communion. At Blessed Sacrament, we were pleased to welcome more than 20 new members through the sacraments of Christian Initiation. Let us continue to keep them in our prayers, that they may remain steadfast in faith.

As we move forward, our Liturgy of the Word shifts from focusing on the Bread of Life to exploring other aspects of our faith. In today's first reading, we hear about the appointment of seven deacons to address some controversies within the early Christian community. The Jewish Christians were divided into two groups: the Hebrews and the Hellenists. The Hebrews, who had lived their lives in Palestine, adhered closely to their traditions and the law of Moses, while the Hellenists, who had spent time abroad, embraced some Jewish customs but often felt less bound by Rabbinical rules. This division led to tensions, especially when complaints arose regarding the distribution of community goods, with the Hellenists feeling that the Hebrews were receiving preferential treatment.

This situation reminds us that the Church is composed of people, not angels. Throughout its long history, the Church has faced issues of envy, jealousy, conflicts, and misunderstandings among individuals from diverse backgrounds. While such conflicts are unfortunate, they are also a normal part of our human experience. We should not be scandalized or discouraged by these situations but rather remember our sinfulness and the need to turn to Christ. The closer we draw to Him, the more unity we will experience among ourselves.

To resolve these issues, the apostles appointed seven men of good reputation and spiritual maturity to oversee charitable duties, allowing the apostles to focus on the more critical task of proclaiming the Word of God. This moment marked the beginning of the diaconate, a distinct role dedicated to service (diakonia in Greek). Today, the role of deacons has evolved from merely overseeing charitable duties to assisting priests and bishops in various ministries.

I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to our deacons for their support of the priests through their participation in proclaiming the Word of God, performing baptisms, witnessing marriages, presiding over funerals and burial services outside of Mass, among other duties. Their involvement allows us to concentrate on the essential ministry of celebrating Mass and administering other sacraments while fulfilling specific ministerial duties entrusted to priests alone.

It is also crucial to recognize that responsibility for church ministries does not fall solely on priests and deacons. The Vatican II Council emphasizes that every Christian is called to contribute to building up the body of Christ by engaging in one or more ministries within the church. I am deeply grateful to all who serve as sacristans, lectors, ushers, greeters, altar servers, Eucharistic ministers, choir members, catechists, and those involved in various religious groups within our parish. By participating in these ministries, you transform from passive attendees to active participants, using your gifts for the greater good of our community. This reflects the image of the church as the body of Christ, where everyone has a role and fosters a sense of belonging within our parish.

These contributions are vital for the vibrancy of our Catholic community and should not be underestimated. Accordingly, I, as I have previously expressed on numerous occasions, urge those who are not yet involved in any volunteer ministry at our parish to prayerfully consider sharing their talents and time with their fellow parishioners and others who need the loving touch and message of Christ.

Sincerely yours in the Risen Lord,

Fr. Thomas Kagumisa

BACK TO LIST