Pastor's Message - October 4/5, 2025

My dear friends in Christ,

This coming weekend, we joyfully gather for our annual Oktoberfest celebrations—a beloved tradition that has brought our community together for over 40 years!

We begin on Saturday evening with our Oktoberfest Dinner Buffet, complete with music, dancing, and exciting raffle prizes! It will be an evening of joy and fellowship as we kick off a weekend centered on unity and gratitude.

Then, on Sunday, we continue with our full Oktoberfest celebration. This year’s theme is:

“IN CHRIST, WE ARE ONE!”

Together, we are one faith-filled community striving to build the Kingdom of God—where His love is known, shared, and experienced by all.

The day will be filled with music, singing, activities, games, and, of course, delicious food! Back by popular demand is our very own St. Joseph Singing Idol—a singing contest open to all ages. I encourage you to invite anyone with a song in their heart to join the fun and share their gifts!

As we celebrate, let us remember how richly God has blessed us. We are a wonderfully diverse community—reflecting the beautiful landscape of our country and world. Despite our differences in race, culture, language, and life experience, we come together with a shared purpose:

To create a just, compassionate, and welcoming world where everyone belongs.

As I’ve said in the past, we are not here to build a perfect community, but a loving and forgiving one. In a world often burdened by anxiety, isolation, division, and fear, we are called to be a sign of hope, unity, and light. This weekend, may our joy proclaim to the world that goodness, decency, and faith still have the power to transform lives.

Oktoberfest has never just been a fundraiser—it’s always been a “fun-raiser” and a faith-builder. It’s a celebration of who we are and the spirit that has inspired this parish since the days of Fr. Paddy Bishop, who helped plant the seeds of this tradition.

This year, for the first time in our history, we will host Oktoberfest in our own parking lot and surrounding areas. I believe this new setting will offer even greater closeness, energy, and inspiration. Let's embrace it together with open hearts.

In today’s Gospel, the disciples said to Jesus:

“Lord, increase our faith.”

Let that be our prayer, too, as we step into this weekend full of faith and joy.

May no one feel like a stranger among us. Let every guest be received as a brother or sister, for we are all one family, with God as our Father.

So come—celebrate with us!

Let your hearts be filled with joy and gladness.

With every blessing,

Fr. Geoffrey