I am always thankful to be serving the generous hearts of St. John the Apostle and St. Alexander. I would like to thank those who sent me cards or gifts, I can never return the abundant generosity of now both parishes. I want to take the time to thank all of those who decorated the church, inside and out, we had many hands assisting. If you would ever be interested in helping, please let me know. Thank you for the wonderful music during the Christmas season. Thank you to all who took on ministries of service throughout the Christmas season, letting others know that God still reaches out them. Finally, a special thank you to those who made offerings for the flowers, donated many of the flowers in the church. And thank you especially to all who made themselves present for the liturgies and offered the prayers of the Church. The presence of Christ and our presence is always the greatest “decoration” of the Christmas season.

Of note also, is that I have recently been informed that the transitional deacons in our diocese, of which there are only three, are all being reassigned to different parishes as they prepare for their ordination to the priesthood in May of this year. This means that Deacon Santiago Corona, who assisted both parishes, will be transferred to St. Mary’s in West Chicago until he is ordained a priest. I was told that this new assignment will begin on February 1^st. We will miss his presence and I know that he was truly grateful for your kindness and warmth towards him. If you would like to be at Deacon Santiago’s ordination to the priesthood, it will take place on Saturday May 25^th at 11:00am at the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus in Joliet.