Sermon Cloud

This weekend, the Church throughout the world turns its attention to the subject of vocations. In particular, we focus on God's invitation for men and women to listen to His voice which calls to hearts young and old, inviting us to follow in the footsteps of Jesus.

The Holy Father reminds us in his Message for this day that throughout history, God continues to call us all to journey with him, to grow deeper in love with Him and to recognize His gifts of love, forgiveness and joy. Throughout the history of time, He has always chosen some individuals - Abraham, Moses, the prophets and the apostles ( Acts 13:43-52) - to work with him in a more direct way, in order to accomplish his plan of salvation. In various ways he continues even today to invite men and women to follow him and to give their lives as living witnesses to his presence in the world. If you think that God is calling you, or if you know of someone who is contemplating a vocation, pray for them, and encourage them to respond to this call.

Our Heavenly Father is the shepherd who is united with Jesus, His Son and with all his people (Jn 27:30). We know his voice and he knows the longings of our hearts. He is the one who sits on the throne ( Rv 7:15) but he also leads us day by day along the path of life, and all he asks is that we listen for his voice in the depth of prayer.

Since my arrival here last July, I continue to be amazed at the generosity of the parishioners who call Christ the King their spiritual home. You have had a long history of putting your faith into action. Your generosity toward the poor, made visible in your support of the annual Share Lent campaign, your involvement in the collection of food for the poor at Thanksgiving, and the Advent activity which called us to put our faith on the line for the sake of the underprivileged of the city, is exemplary.

In today's bulletin, you will find a condensed version of the parish Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2007. Thank you very much for your generosity which allows us to continue making this parish such a place of welcome, and responding to the needs of so many who need our help.

Various members of the parish finance committee have agreed to explain this report to you during the masses this weekend. I would like to invite a member of the committee to come forward now for this purpose.