Dear People of Saint Anne,
You must have seen and read about the various staff members writing regarding their involvement in the commissions and ministries here at Saint Anne. It is my turn this week, and here I am.
All of you are aware for the most part what I do here. You see me almost every Sunday, presiding at liturgies and meeting/greeting all of you. I truly love meeting you on the weekends and weekdays.
I am also part of the Human Concerns Commission. This Commission exists to guide the ministries of Saint Anne Parish that provide spiritual and physical support to all God’s people who are in need, especially those marginalized by poverty, illness, isolation, discrimination and addiction. The Human Concerns Commission is divided into four areas of focus: Pastoral Care, Faithjustice, Hope Ministries and the Sharing Board. I attend the meetings and give some suggestions if and when needed. I am the spiritual/staff animator in this Commission, supporting the various activities and bringing the ministry into action. Besides attending the meetings, one thing I enjoy is visiting the House of Hope. I go there to thank the volunteers and sometimes to SHOP!!!!!!!!!!
I go to most of the Faith Formation classes during the year and their programs. I go to the school to visit the children and interact with them. While these daily activities are going on, I also attend to calls from the many senior/nursing homes, Good Shepherd Hospital and Journey Care. It is truly a rewarding experience to be with families, especially in difficult and sad moments. I am also available during the weekdays when people come to talk to a priest needing advice, comfort and listening.
I thank God for this wonderful gift of serving our community, and I am grateful for your love, support and generosity. May God bless all of us as we strive to become authentic disciples of Jesus.
Yours faithfully,
Fr. Joji Thanugundla