Dear Parishioners,
Earlier this month, I celebrated Mass with our students one last time before they began their summer vacations. I reminded them that, within our Catholic tradition, every month of the year is dedicated to some devotion. Typically, the devotion corresponds to a particular feast day held within that month. For example, October is dedicated to the Holy Rosary because the Church celebrates the Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary on the 7th of that month. March is another good example. It is dedicated to St. Joseph because his principal feast day falls on the 19th of that month.
I also mentioned to students that it is quite beautiful for us to begin our school year in a month dedicated to Mary and then end our school year in a month dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. I find it beautiful because one of my goals for our students here at Nativity is to bring them closer to the Heart of Jesus, and that is exactly what Mary is always trying to do as well. She tries to show us the way of discipleship. We, in turn, try to follow her lead and imitate her Immaculate Heart in its love for and devotion to Jesus. As our offertory hymn today says, “Had I but Mary's sinless heart to love Thee with, my dearest King! O with what bursts of fervent praise Thy goodness, Jesus, would I sing!”
Friends, on this very special weekend in which we celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity, Father’s Day, and my official installation as Pastor here at Nativity of Mary, I invite you to please join me in renewing your devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus by praying this consecration prayer written by St. Margaret Mary.
O Sacred Heart of Jesus, to Thee I consecrate and offer up my person and my life, my actions, trials, and sufferings, that my entire being may henceforth only be employed in loving, honoring, and glorifying Thee. This is my irrevocable will, to belong entirely to Thee, and to do all for Thy love, renouncing with my whole heart all that can displease Thee.
I take Thee, O Sacred Heart, for the sole object of my love, the protection of my life, the pledge of my salvation, the remedy of my frailty and inconstancy, the reparation for all the defects of my life, and my secure refuge at the hour of my death. Be Thou, O Most Merciful Heart, my justification before God Thy Father, and screen me from His anger which I have so justly merited. I fear all from my own weakness and malice, but placing my entire confidence in Thee, O Heart of Love, I hope all from Thine infinite Goodness. Annihilate in me all that can displease or resist Thee. Imprint Thy pure love so deeply in my heart that I may never forget Thee or be separated from Thee.
I beseech Thee, through Thine infinite Goodness, grant that my name be engraved upon Thy Heart, for in this I place all my happiness and all my glory, to live and to die as one of Thy devoted servants. Amen.
Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Bill Duffert