We continue our observance of Ordinary Time this month, a time for us to reflect on how we can walk in the way of our God. The readings this month give us some insight into how to do this. On September 6, we are reminded in our Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 95) that “if today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts”. The following week, September 13, Matthew’s gospel presents us with Jesus’ parable about forgiveness (Matthew 18: 21-35). We are encouraged to seek the Lord on September 20 and are told that God’s ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55: 6-9).

Finally, on September 27, Paul prompts us to have the attitude of Christ who humbled himself and became one of us (Philippians 2:1-11). You can always prepare for the Sunday readings at liturgy.slu.edu/.

Dear Friends,

I am pleased to introduce to you, Paula Flanagan. If the name sounds familiar, it is, she is the wife of our Family Faith Formation Director, Jim Flanagan. Paula is our new Curriculum Coordinator for our Family Faith Formation program. Paula brings more than 25 years of experience in Catholic faith formation, youth ministry, theology education, and parish programming.

Dear St. Mary's Parish Family,

It is with great joy that I introduce the newest member of our parish staff, Jill Compton. Jill joins our parish pastoral staff as St. Mary's Finance & Operations Manager.

Jill brings a strong background in finance and accounting, with more than seven years of experience working in corporate finance and accounting for large corporations in fast-paced, challenging environments.

“Why aren’t there miracles anymore?” I’ve heard people say this more than once. Usually, it is someone who is a believer in Christ but not a Catholic, because Catholics understand that miracles happen at every Mass, to say nothing of the other miracles the Church recognizes. But even some Catholics often find themselves wondering why it’s been so long since God gave us a good show. A good sun-dance in the sky. A good, flashy reason to believe.

Choosing Heaven: My children often ask me questions about Heaven. What does Heaven look like? Is there nighttime in Heaven? Do you get hungry in Heaven? Are there oceans in Heaven? Will we feel bored in Heaven? My answer is almost always the same: “I can’t tell you for sure.” I guess I didn’t realize how little we actually know about Heaven until I had kids who were obsessed with hearing the details.

Driving up my street in late spring, you can see which yard is mine from a whole block away: it’s the one covered in dandelions. And I like it that way.

I fear neither my husband’s shame nor the snarky comments of neighbors: I will never apologize for my dandelion-filled yard. “It’s for the pollinators,” I say, but it’s a total lie. I just think it looks lovely. Who doesn’t like a splash of yellow after a long, dreary winter?

Sometimes I feel capable of absorbing almost anything except God’s Word. My mind soaks up song lyrics, sports trivia, and endless online content. But what was the reading at Mass this morning? I struggle to recall. That realization discourages me, and it leads to an uncomfortable question. What is my heart really for? Is it shaped for constant information and distraction, or is it truly designed for God? Am I capable of deeply receiving His Word?

A few years ago, I met a woman in my parish who was a successful lawyer. Yet in her free time, she poured her energy into a nonprofit she founded to advocate for children with special needs. When I asked what in- spired her, she spoke of her niece, who was born with disabilities. Her niece was both a glorious gift and a constant challenge. Out of that painful, beautiful experience, she felt called to create something lasting for other children and parents. The nonprofit thrived, not because she had mapped it all out, but because she was deeply moved to act.