Welcome! We gather today with hearts full of gratitude for your dedication to this conference and, most importantly, to your life’s ministry. Your presence here reflects your commitment to serving Christ and His people with love, wisdom, and tireless devotion.
As we reflect on the Gospels, we are reminded of the awe that people experienced in the presence of Jesus. They marveled when He fed a multitude with just five loaves and two fish, raised Jairus’ daughter from the dead, and taught with authority in the synagogue at Capernaum. Just as these signs left the people amazed, so too should our parishes reflect the amazing ministry of our Lord Jesus.
Pope Francis reminds us that, “As pastors, we are called to accompany in this process the communities that we serve, and at the same time to commit ourselves with prayer, discernment and apostolic zeal in ensuring that our ministry is suited to the needs of a synodal and missionary Church.”
Following the example of Saint Paul, we are proud of our parishioners for their endurance and faith amidst life’s challenges. (Cf. 2 Thes 1:4). We wish to continue dedicating our lives to ensure that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in them, and they in Him, “in accord with the grace of our God and Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Thes 1:12).
Let us pray. † Loving Father, as we begin this conference, we ask for Your guidance and wisdom. May our encounters and discussions glorify Your name and inspire us to lead our parishes with the same authority, compassion, and miraculous love that Jesus showed. Send Your Holy Spirit to fill us with the grace needed to reflect the light of Christ in our communities. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
