Dear Friends,

As we journey into July, the warmth of summer invites us into a deeper reflection on the life of the Church and its enduring role in our spiritual and communal lives. July is not just a time of vacations and family gatherings; in the liturgical calendar, it is also a month rich in devotion. We are reminded through feast days such as that of St. Benedict (July 11), St. Mary Magdalene (July 22), and St. James (July 25), that the Church is not a static institution but a living Body, built on the faith of saints, martyrs, and ordinary people striving for holiness.

This month also invites us to think of the Church as a global community. In many parts of the world, July marks a time when young people participate in pilgrimages, mission trips, and spiritual retreats. It’s often a season of preparation for World Youth Day, which has inspired generations to respond to God’s call with courage and joy. In countries where the Church faces persecution, July is a time of endurance, faith, and quiet strength—a reminder that while our circumstances vary, we are united in one faith.

We also celebrate the birth of our nation this month. Our nation has seen many twists and turns and ups and downs in its history, but at this time it seems to be growing in turmoil. While we are tempted to react rather than respond, let us allow our Catholic faith to guide our actions. Our Catholic faith values the lives of immigrants and their right to seek a better life. May we give voice to that aspect of our faith.

Let July be a month of renewal for all Catholics. Whether we find ourselves in the garden, a family cookout, a protest, or a quiet chapel, let us rediscover the beauty of creation, the power of our faith, and the joy of prayer. And let us recommit ourselves to building a Church and a nation that reflects the mercy and compassion of Christ.

In the spirit of this summer season, may we open our hearts anew to the mission of the Church and become instruments of God’s peace in a world in desperate need of healing.

Blessings.

We are filled with gratitude and joy as the first phase of this year’s Leadership Formation Institute comes to a close.

Thanks to your prayers and encouragement, we were able to offer a transformative experience to 21 participants, who are growing as leaders with missionary hearts, ready to serve their parishes and the wider community.

Over the past several months, these dedicated participants engaged in:

• 6 sessions of spiritual formation on topics such as prayer and identity and becoming missionary disciples.
• 4 sessions of leadership development focused on bereavement care, leading small groups, serving inactive Catholics home, and partnering with parents.
• 2 sessions on project planning and evaluation, equipping participants to turn their vision into action.

Looking ahead, we are excited to share that this fall, participants from the Cathedral of Saint Andrew and Saint Jude Parish will begin launching their parish-based projects — initiatives designed to foster deeper parish engagement and strengthen our mission of evangelization. We look forward to keeping you updated on their progress and the fruits of their leadership.