News From Father

April 11, 2026

Dearly Beloved Parishioners,

As the pastor of our parish, I am aware of a message currently circulating on social media regarding an experience at our Easter Sunday Mass. Ordinarily, I do not respond to such posts. However, given the confusion and potential scandal such statements may cause—especially among those who may not fully understand the life and mission of the Church—I feel it is important to offer a brief clarification.

First and foremost, our parish remains deeply committed to being a welcoming spiritual home for all who come seeking God. Many who worship with us have consistently testified to experiencing a genuine sense of belonging, reverence, and love within this parish community. This is, and will always remain, at the heart of our mission.

At the same time, it must be clearly understood that we do not come to church to be entertained or to hear only what is pleasing to us. We come to encounter the living Word of God—truth that challenges, forms, and calls each of us to continual conversion and growth. The proclamation of the Gospel, whether comforting or demanding, is not a personal opinion but a faithful handing on of what the Church teaches.

It is therefore important to exercise caution and responsibility when sharing public statements that may misrepresent the Church and discourage others from encountering Christ. To publicly dissuade others from attending Mass does not merely affect a parish community—it risks drawing people away from the very presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist, whom we profess to worship and love.

If there are concerns, misunderstandings, or areas where we may have fallen short, I sincerely encourage direct and respectful dialogue. My door, as well as that of our parish staff, is always open. A conversation rooted in charity and truth is far more fruitful than conclusions formed at a distance.

Let us remember that the Church is not a place of personal affirmation alone, but a sacred place of transformation—where, through grace, we are continually shaped into better disciples of Christ.

Be assured of my prayers for all involved, and may the risen Lord grant us hearts filled with truth, humility, and peace.

God loves you, and so do I.

Yours in the Risen Lord,

Rev. Emmanuel UC. Izuka, Pastor.