My family and I recently visited my sister in Omaha, Nebraska, and attended Mass at her parish, St. Patrick Catholic Church in Gretna. I was delighted to see a strong visual emphasis on The Year of Faith throughout the church.
Kiosks in the vestibule display YOF banners
Banners behind the altar
The parish also communally prays the “Increase our Faith” prayer before dismissal at every Mass.
Prayer Copyright: Our Sunday Visitor
I would think it would be awfully difficult for the Average Joe and Jane Catholic in the pew at this parish to remain unaware about the Year of Faith. And to really kick off this Year of Faith, this parish is hosting Jeff Cavins and his “Matthew in a Day” seminar on November 17.
Way to go, St. Patrick in Gretna! I’m glad my sis and her soon-to-be husband call you home. So impressed with your Year of Faith initiatives, I’ll give you a pass on clapping after Mass … just this once!
Now I’m curious. What Year of Faith promotions (if any) are you seeing from the parishes in your area?
St. Theresa’s parish in Des Moines is hosting a day of faith stories on Sat. Nov 17, from 9 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. The name of it is “Why Be Catholic?” Fr. Dominic McManus, who grew up in the parish, Sister Joyce Blum and Deacon Dave O’Brien will share their faith journeys and vocation stories. It should be a great day.