August 24, 2025
Dear Most Holy Trinity Family,
We are moving closer to the end of summer, and another busy cycle is about to begin. We should not be anxious, as this is a sign of God’s blessing and of the ministerial work that lies ahead.
The first reading and Gospel for this weekend create a picture of people from all corners of the earth participating in the kingdom of God. This is a reminder that the kingdom of God is always bigger than our own community, nationality, or culture. This portion of the readings speaks of unity: one God, one people. It reminds me of our parish community because, week after week, we gather for the Eucharist as one people to offer our joys and sorrows, and to serve and pray. We come from different parts of the city and the world to participate at the Banquet of the Lord and to be nourished with His Body and Word.
Please join us at the 9:15 am Mass on September 14. I will be installed as pastor that day, but the celebration is not just about me. As the readings this weekend mention, it will be about us – one people coming together from different parts of the earth. Bishop Oscar Cantu will preside at the Mass. It will be a multilingual celebration. If you cannot attend the Mass, you are welcome to join an informal reception in the Trinity Center afterward. I am grateful to the team organizing this celebration.
On September 21, at the 5:30 pm Mass, we will have another opportunity to gather. This is the annual Liturgical celebration for Migrants and Refugees, and this year our parish will be hosting it. The Mass will also be presided over by Bishop Oscar Cantú, and the Mass will be bilingual or multilingual.
As summer ends and a new season begins in parish life, I look forward to the liturgical celebrations between now and Christmas. I know I am not alone in this anticipation.
Meanwhile, as the diverse community we are, let us live into the vision of God depicted in this weekend’s readings: one God, one people.
In Christ,
Fr. Elias Puentes, SJ
Pastor
