St. John the Baptist Catholic Church

Where Stewardship is a Way of Life

Bob Jensen

June 18, 2023

Pastor's Corner

Love Your Neighbors and Pray For Those Who Persecute You

It is impossible to paint the gay and lesbian community with one broad, brush stroke.  There is great diversity and many differences.

One very tiny group, which has been in the news lately may seem to be mocking Christianity and labeled by some as a hate group and anti-Catholic. They may evoke dismay or anger for those who love our Catholic faith. But remember the words of Jesus in Matthew’s gospel: “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you.’” (Matthew 5:44). In the same section of the Gospel, Jesus warns against anger. But I say to you,

“Whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment.” (Matthew 5: 22). This is a challenging command from the Lord, especially when it seems someone is attacking what we hold dear. But if we respond only in anger, we may be abandoning the very faith we hold dear.

Nowadays, most people know someone who identifies as part of the LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning)+ community. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us how we should treat them. “They must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity” (#2358). That is the official teaching of the Church. We may not agree with some of their choices or lifestyle, but it does not lessen the respect, compassion, and sensitivity deserved by every child of God and every human being.

June 11, 2023

Pastor's Corner, Uncategorized

Preparing for Mass

I prepare for Mass on my Sunday commute by listening to Charles Gounod’s, Messe Solemmelle de Sainte Cecile. This romantic style Mass was composed in 1855 for three soloists, mixed choir, orchestra, and organ. Not only does it ensure I am wide awake, it also helps my spirit soar as I make my way to the parish and our celebration of the Mass in a more modern style. I pull out of the driveway with Kyrie Eleison (Lord Have Mercy). As I pass by the Starbucks, the Gloria begins. With the first view of Mount Rainier, the Credo (I Believe) starts and the beauty and magnificence of creation reinforces the belief in the Creator. I enter the parking lot as the Sanctus (Holy, Holy) concludes. Once at the parish, I begin to think of the people and needs for which I want to pray. I also always think of at least one thing for which I am thankful.

Preparation for Mass can make the Mass more fruitful. That preparation could include looking over the readings, bible.usccb.org/. Most of us drive to church. You can use that time to listen to some relaxing or inspiring music. If you are traveling with family, you can ask each member old enough to speak what is a current need for which to pray and a blessing of the past week for which to give thanks. Remind children they can silently mention those things when we pause of our individual prayers in the Universal Prayers after the Profession of Faith as well as when the bread and wine are brought forward and placed on the altar.

Getting to church can be hectic, especially with little ones. How can you find a moment of peace to help you enter into more deeply the mystery we are about to celebrate? Let me know what works for you.

June 4, 2023

Bulletin, Pastor's Corner, Uncategorized

During the Parish retreat on June 10, we will be seeking feedback on our proposed parish priorities that arose from our synod experience. Please review the current draft.

  1. St. John the Baptist Catholic Community offers Christ-like inclusion and acceptance.

– We desire to accompany all on this journey of faith.
– We delight in the rich diversity of cultures and traditions.
– We recognize, respect, and are enriched by the experiences and perspectives of women and those who are marginalized or underrepresented.

  1. St. John the Baptist is rebuilding an actively engaged faith community.

– We seek to welcome back those who have left the Church.
– We offer healing and hope to those hurt or wounded by the Church.
– We develop stewards, who gratefully share their gifts of time, talent, and treasure for the building up of God’s Kingdom.
– We continue the synodal process as we engage with Partners in the Gospel.

  1. St. John the Baptist forms missionary disciples guided by the Holy Spirit.

– We strive for all to grow and share in their faith.
– We engage, respond, and increase our understanding to better serve youth, young adults, and families by meeting them where they are in life and in their faith journey.
– We reach out beyond our parishioners to the needs of the wider community, extending the care and compassionate love of God.