Parish newsletters can be a special way to connect members of a congregation and also to evangelize. At Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church in Fergus Falls, a quarterly publication called “The Journey” attempts to live out this aspect of the parish’s mission: “We are sent to love and serve as we journey toward the kingdom.” It was derived from OLV’s stewardship committee.
Individuals are encouraged to participate by submitting writing and photography. The latest fall edition included a reflection from our new parochial vicar, Father Patrick Hoeft. The publication announced recent baptisms, welcomed new members who entered the church through RCIA and spotlighted a local couple who minister through the Meals on Wheels program. It also included a column titled, “Reflections of an Old Man” from longtime parishioner Lee Krogh and a section called Perpetual Light, which tells the stories of people buried in St. Otto’s Cemetery.
The newsletter serves as a place for education and catechesis, most recently featuring the life of a saint as well as an informative piece on racism, which pointed to the U.S. bishops’ document, “Open Wide Our Hearts.” It often includes a message from the pastor, Father Alan Wielinski.
Parishioners were given an invitation through the parish bulletin to share a favorite Scripture text and an explanation regarding why that choice was made, which was then compiled for the newsletter. This feature provided a way to connect with one another and open our eyes to inspiring texts throughout the Bible. Here is a sampling of submissions:
- “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things” (Philippians 4:8).
I am always inspired by this verse because it speaks to the power of our thoughts influencing our behavior. Lifting our minds to the higher good, to what is the best of the best, calls us to put aside the pettiness and ill will that can destroy our happiness and our relationships. Garbage in, garbage out. Beauty in, beauty out. We are what we think about. — Rosemary Griffin
- “Be doers of the Word and not hearers only, deluding yourselves” (James 1:22).
This verse came to me while I was preparing to give a talk at a Residents Encounter Christ weekend. The theme of hearing the Word and not acting upon it does no good — the Word is to be shared through action and prayer with others, not just yourself. This verse gave direction to my talk and how I strive to live my life. — Jeff Aschnewitz
- “Moses answered the people, ‘Do not be afraid, for God has come in this way to show you his awesome power, so that from now on you will be afraid to sin against him’” (Exodus 20:20).
Ever since the coronavirus started, all I could think of is, “Be not afraid,” so I started to look for that passage. The first one I came to was Exodus 20:20 (2020 — a coincidence?).
The phrase “Do not be afraid” is in the Bible 365 times, one for each day of the year, as God tells us to trust in him and to do his will. — Darlene Draeger
- “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).
Our world today doesn’t know stillness. We are always connected to our world. What do we reach for — our phone, our TV, our computer, our radio? From rising in the morning to the end of the day, we have constant noise and our thoughts are always spinning.
But wait, God is calling us to “be still.” Disconnect, calm your thoughts, close your eyes, breathe. Now, listen to God’s creation — birds singing, raindrops falling, wind in the trees. Listen to the silence. Know that I am God — all-powerful, all-knowing — holy is his name. Surrender to his plan for you, give him your worries, accept his peace and stillness. For God is our refuge and our strength and only God can give you the peace that you search for. — Peggy Rezac
- “What does the Lord require of you? To do justice, to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8-9).
I’ve liked this Bible passage since the first time I saw it. I have it posted on my microwave and read it often. — Marcy Otto-Scheutze
- “When you pass through waters, I will be with you; through rivers, you shall not be swept away. When you walk through fire, you shall not be burned, nor will flames consume you” (Isaiah 43:2).
I like this verse because it reminds me that no matter what we go through, God is with us. — Craig Hebert
Sharing these favorite verses gives us a personal glimpse into the faith lives of those we sit next to during Mass each week. Especially during this time of COVID-19, having a place to communicate special messages and important themes gives us one more opportunity to stay connected.
Deb Forstner is a member of Our Lady of Victory in Fergus Falls. She serves as a National Association of Catholic Chaplains-certified chaplain at Lake Region Healthcare in Fergus Falls.