On the Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time, members of St. Boniface celebrated World Youth Day and the only thing missing was the youth! Our young people were attending World Youth Day at Six Flags along with thousands of other young Catholics. A Eucharistic celebration concluded their day of fun. Thank you to everyone who made this day possible.

We heard in Sunday's Gospel how the Pharisees tried to trap Jesus with the question of which is the greatest commandment. His answer provides us with a lifelong guide to love. In his homily Fr. Luke spoke of love - of which there are many kinds. Loving God should surpass all other love. Our priority is to love God. Love for neighbor isn't always easy, but when we ask the question "What pleases God?" we will be able to do the `right' thing. Who truly loves God? Is it he who prays, attends Mass, recites the Rosary but cannot lend a helping hand to his neighbor? Ultimately it is the man who makes a true love relationship with God; heart, mind and soul. Once we love God it is possible to see Him in our neighbor. How do we create this love? We create love through communication and being constantly in thought with God. In everyday tasks, go to Him in thought and prayer.

Today marks the beginning of the Bishop's Appeal. Parishioners heard a pre-recorded message from Bishop Alvaro Corrada asking for our spiritual and monetary support. He called upon each Catholic to give to the best of their ability, urging the practice of almsgiving as a way to assist those in need. We are asked to give generously, remembering the poor woman in the scriptures who gave her last two coins - all that she had, which is the greatest gift.

Refreshments were served following Mass. Chances were available for the afghan to be raffled. There also is a sign-up sheet in the community room for the upcoming parish Thanksgiving meal November 23rd. Each family attending is asked to bring a dish to share with at least ten people besides their family. Meat will be provided by St. Boniface.

Special Mass intentions will be offered on November 1st and 2nd in honor of All Souls Day. Please continue to pray for the faithful departed.

A choir is being formed for Christmas Midnight Mass. Contact John Bongiovani if you wish to lend your voice.

Reminder: November 2nd turn your clocks back!

Reminder: The next Youth Mass will be November 23rd at noon.

Congratulations and best wishes to all who are celebrating birthdays and anniversaries. We pray for the sick and suffering that they will find comfort in the Lord. We ask you to pray for our nation as we approach election day. Get out and vote! Do so with an informed conscience. Keep in prayer our brave men and women who serve our country and protect us from harm.

Have a wonderful week!