Dear St. Paul Family and Friends,

When terrible things happen, we ask: Where is God? Recently, when the pandemic hit and disrupted our everyday normal lives, causing the loss of numerous lives and livelihood, and sowing chaos, fear and confusion, we also grappled with the question: Where is God?

The pandemic, however, has shown us that God never leaves our side. He is with us through our front liners and first responders who bravely and lovingly care for the sick. He is with us through the good men and women who creatively and generously help the poor and the elderly. He is with us through the numerous small communities who pray together and intercede on behalf of the world. He is with us through family and friends who go out of their way to console one another. God never leaves us. He is Emmanuel – God with us!

It is true that there is that time of the year we call Christmas when we remember and cele- brate the “being-with-us” of God. “And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father’s only Son, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). But His “being-with-us” is not only limited to one day or season. God is with us every day and in all moments of our lives. His presence is even more palpable when we love each other.

Together with Fr. Mike, the clergy, and the staff of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, I want to thank you for showing God to us and to the world. Your enduring faith is very inspiring. Your magnanimous support to the Church is admirable. THANK YOU FOR YOUR LOVE! If in one way or another we disappointed or hurt you, I ask for your forgiveness.

With renewed spirit, let us celebrate the “being-with-us” of God – as a FAMILY. Let us be for one another God’s gift beautifully wrapped in generosity, mercy and love. Together, let us have a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!

With so much love for you,
Fr. Joseph CM Pilotin, M

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE & SCHEDULE 2021