Don’t be scared!  I’m just writing a little post to describe the blessings of St. Patrick (who we celebrate today) AND St. Michael the Archangel – the name of the parish where I just completed three days of a very fun mission.

(It’s as close as I’ll get to wearing a green leprechaun outfit!)

Both of these heavenly beings (one a saint the other an angel) have the same purpose: to get rid of the ugliness of sin and temptation in our lives!  Consider St. Michael’s role as an archangel and defender against the devil, and you’ll see that same inspiration in the tradition of St. Patrick who, according to tradition, cast out the “evil” snakes from Ireland.

I can’t say that I did much “casting out” of evil spirits at St. Michael’s parish. But, I did invite the people to make room for God in their lives.  If people invite the LIGHT of God into their lives, there will be no room for darkness.   And I did try to fill them with the “bountiful” blessing and love of God.  The fact is, if you are filled with grace, there won’t be much room for vice!

And, so that’s what happened. In fact, at this recent parish mission GRACE abounded!  The first night, there were about 275 people. 2nd night 300.  Third night – almost 400!  It was great to see so many happy faces and empty plates of the sampled penne alla vodka!

A special shout out to Franks Pizza and Pasta in Overlea, MD!

Armando and his lovely wife and children were on hand each night. While they attend a different parish, they insisted on bringing their three children to the mission.  Since they own a restaurant, they know what it’s like to feed their children with food for body, mind and spirit. The two sons helped me out with some of the antics that I used during the mission.  The family also helped me feed a very hungry crowd by offering some of their delicious homemade bread!

Thanks to Fr. Jim Sorra and the people of St. Michael’s the Archangel Parish for such welcoming and enthusiastic parish mission!

(No, you’re not seeing Double, good friend and pastor of St. Michael’s Fr. Jim Sorra is another Filipino-            American Priest. Everyone is always confusing the two of us!  We have fun confusing people too!)

I pray that Grace Before Meals helped make the St. Michael’s Parish’s lent a joyful season of feasting on God’s goodness – even in the middle of this season of fasting!

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