Hello, friends:

Two weeks ago, I had the opportunity to visit the state of Chiapas, Mexico. I crossed the whole state and visited several magical towns- Tuxtla, Chiapa de Corzo, San Cristobal de las Casas, Palenque, and Lacondon jungle. Some of these places were visited by Pope Francis during his trip to Mexico. It was such a blessing being able to explore the Mayan ruins, the pyramids, cenotes (underground rivers), and the great river Grijalva- which divides Mexico from Guatemala.

Additional to the adventures and sight-seeing, this trip also served as an opportunity to step away from daily routines and allow time for refreshment and renewal for the mind and spirit. Upon returning to the parish to fulfill my duties as a priest, I feel refreshed to get back to work and look forward to celebrating another year of life. On April 24, I am celebrating thirty-three years of life that the Good Lord has granted me. I am grateful I get to spend this special day with this community. I thank the Lord for another year filled with blessings. And I thank all of you for your constant prayers and support in my journey as a priest.

​ Fr. Alex 

Hello, friends:

Welcome to our parish ministry fair: “one heart, many hands!” We hope that after mass you’ll take some time to browse the different ministries and perhaps ask a question or two, and even sign up to participate in something that interests you! I’d like to thank the members of the parish pastoral council who have worked diligently to make this happen; it’s taken a lot of behind the scenes effort and energy to pull this off: thanks!

This past Monday I had the wonderful opportunity to visit one of our First Communion classes. The kids were involved in making the communion bread that we usually use at mass. It was a great time to watch as they dirtied their little hands with the water and flour. As they waited for the bread to bake they asked questions. Please pray for all of our First Communion students; in just a few short weeks they will be receiving the Eucharist for the very first time.

If you haven’t already made a pledge to this year’s United in Ministry appeal, I’d ask you to prayerfully consider making one, especially in the name of one of our seminarians. As you might already know our UIM goal has increased substantially for 2016/17 and we really need your assistance in making our goal. This year’s goal is just about set at $80,000.

​Fr. Ray

Dear, friends:

Please keep the NMSU university students who are attending Aggie Retreat VIII in prayer this weekend. This is a great opportunity for our students to meet the Lord and the lived experience is usually one that’s etched in their spiritual memory for a lifetime as a mountain top, face to face encounter. Special thanks to the student team; they have invested huge amounts of loving energy and effort, to ensure a successful retreat!

Next weekend our parish community will be invited to what we’re calling a Ministry fair. All of our ministries will be on display and able to answer any questions that you might have. I’d ask you to prayerfully consider joining one of our parish ministries, if you aren’t already involved.

You’ll be invited to stop by the booths / tables of the different ministries and to check out what each one does and how they help animate the life of our parish family. There will be treats after each of the weekend masses; please make some time to stay a little while and visit with our friends and family! Thanks to the members of the parish council and staff, and all others, who have given of their time and energy to make this next weekend a success!

​Fr. Ray