Future Planning
I’m delighted that our Parish Council members are taking leadership roles in thinking about our parish’s future. I sincerely hope many other parish members join the Future Planning Task Force being formed. Please consider attending the initial meeting on Thursday, January 25 at 6:30 p.m. We will meet in the Social Hall.
I meet monthly with fellow parish administrators from throughout the Archdiocese. We exchange stories, information and support. I know I’ve learned a lot at these gatherings.
I’ve also found it interesting to compare how we’re doing with how other parishes are doing. At one level, we’re all part of the same team, i.e., the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. At the same time, there can be a bit of friendly rivalry.
What’s clear to me is how well St. Matt’s is doing. We have our challenges, of course. At the same time, we have many, many positives. The Parish Council identified many at its November retreat. The January 25 Task Force meeting will build on the retreat’s results, pointing the way for parish-wide discussions over the next several months.
That Darn COVID!
I do not much like working from home.
Unfortunately, I did not have much choice the week before last. What I thought was a garden variety cold (two negative tests) turned out to be COVID (test three).
Fortunately, my case wasn’t very severe. I was able to get a few things done remotely, even though I didn’t much feel like working at all. And I was relieved to know that our office staff and volunteers are very capable, and they could still get a lot accomplished.
At least, until several of them came down with COVID themselves! That meant several projects were put on hold for a week or more.
I value getting things done. I think it’s good to be productive. (I know, that’s a very American attitude.) So, I struggle with the reality that people—including me—are going to get sick once in a while.
My time off wasn’t like a planned retreat or vacation. I just had to slow down and remember that at times, all we can do is rest, be patient, and pray.
Have a great week!
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