The January 14th Life Mass
Presided over by Bishop Burbidge, showcased St. Joseph’s in a wonderful light. The zeal of our people, manifested in so many preparations, was evident to visitors as soon as they walked through the doors! Our cantors, our servers, our rosary group, our ushers, our altar guild, were terrific at their every task. Our parish staff — in the office, on the grounds — were vigilant for detail. Knights of Columbus of the Fourth Degree, Birthchoice staff (and others volunteering) for the reception, the STMA select chorus (under the direction of Nina McElwee) and the schola — they all impressed by their devotion. It was a glorious morning. Our 10th time!
One of the largest groups of youth represented St. Francis de Sales church in Lumberton. Some twenty young men and women left their parish at 6 a.m. to begin the Life events of the day with Mass. Collegians from Elon and UNC-CH were conspicuous – and that was just from the front door “wing” of our church. Jake Griffith, who graduated several years ago from NC State, showed up early to usher. As Jackie Bonk, head of the Diocese’s Life office, said it after the Communion: the wave of pro-life activity is growing greatly in the 18-30 age group, and young adults are carrying the torches
But these observations began as a tribute to those in our parish’s various ministries who put out so much to make St. Joseph’s radiate the love of Christ and the Triumph of the Cross on January 14. By 6 a.m., hands were already on deck, putting on a hundred finishing touches. Saturday was, above all, a great moment spiritually, and the faithful of St. Joseph’s were alive to it. St. Joseph’s hosted a major Diocesan-wide assembly with all the characteristic warmth of our congregation.
With profound gratitude, Monsignor
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