Longtime Parishioners and Our Youngest Families All Have Unique Gifts to Share

One of the most beautiful things about our Catholic Church is that it is truly universal. In fact, the word Catholic itself comes from the Latin adjective for “universal.” While we may typically think about this universality as an indication that the Catholic faith is practiced all over the world, it’s also worth considering another aspect of the word “universal,” which is “of, affecting, or done by all people.” Viewed in this light, the universality of the Church emphasizes the valuable role of all the faithful here at St. Francis Xavier, from our youngest to our oldest parishioners.

Many of our longtime parishioners — like Doris Bastion, Lawrence and Jolene Roy, David Lambert, and Joe Pierce — have a long history of parish involvement at St. Francis Xavier. Their commitment to a life of discipleship over the years has helped our parish become the inspiring faith community it is today.

“Our older families definitely bring a strong faith through the ups and downs of life,” says Fr. Brian O’Brien. “They have seen our Catholic community through periods of struggle and through our current time where we are growing and thriving. Their institutional memory and dedication to the sacraments are what stand out for me the most.”

As the country continues to emerge from the pandemic restrictions of last year, Fr. O’Brien is hopeful that our OWLS group — Older, Wiser, Livelier Saints — which serves parishioners 55 and older, will be able to resume their regular meetings and activities soon. Another way that some of our oldest parishioners continue to serve is through the new Intercessors of St. Francis Xavier Ministry. By praying for the mission of our parish, homebound and older parishioners are able to stay connected to our faith community.

Worshipping alongside our more “seasoned” parishioners at each Mass are the many young families of our parish. Just last year, 30 infants were baptized right here at St. Francis Xavier! For Fr. O’Brien, this number is an encouraging sign of a vibrant and growing parish community.

“Younger families bring hope,” Fr. O’Brien says. “The adage goes, ‘If your church isn’t crying, it’s dying.’ To have young families coming to Mass and participating in the life of the parish tells everyone that we’re here to stay! Young families can also be a great support to one another.”

While life can often be hectic for families with children and teens, parents are welcome to serve in any way they can. Certainly, the growth of the domestic church within the family is a big priority at this stage in life. If time allows, there are many ministries and discipleship growth programs at St. Francis Xavier that young parishioners may prayerfully consider joining. Often, serving during the liturgy as an usher, lector or Eucharistic Minister is a good fit for busy families who are committed to attending Mass.

From our newly baptized infants to our parishioners in their 90s, every member of St. Francis Xavier is a treasured part of our faith family.

“The Church is universal,” Fr. O’Brien says. “We’re in every country in the world, and we ought to also cover every generation. The parish is a microcosm of the larger Church in our region. All are welcome, and that includes people of all ages. Pope Francis is fond of saying that the young have energy and optimism, and the older folks have the wisdom. The Church needs all of this in great supply.”

St. Francis Xavier parishioners appreciate opportunities to gather in fellowship.