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My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ
My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
I am delighted to extend a warm welcome to you on behalf of the entire parish family at Church of the Holy Family, located in the beautiful Sorensen neighborhood of St. Louis Park, Minnesota.
As Pastor, I have been continually amazed and humbled by the selfless pouring out of love and support I have witnessed among our parish family. This support is not only abundantly offered within the parish, but also extends far beyond our church walls, as our parishioners seek to live out our wonderful Catholic faith in the world. It was often said of the early Christians, “See how they love one another!” Two thousand years later, we are blessed with this same spirit of Christian discipleship within our parish.
It has been my privilege to witness and participate in what can only be described as the joy that comes from honestly seeking to know and love Jesus Christ, and to live a fully sacramental life together as faithful Catholics. This is Holy Family, a parish family in every sense of the word.
So what is the formula that leads to this joyful, family atmosphere?
In my work as a priest, I have experienced and participated in many parish communities. A few churches are very faithful and well aligned with the Roman Catholic Church and all of her teachings, but they are not exactly friendly in doing so. Others are very friendly and welcoming to everyone, but unfortunately not faithful: many are hesitant to speak the full and cohesive truth of the Catholic faith, which often stands courageously in opposition to what is accepted in the world. Yet, it is indeed this comprehensive and beautiful truth that brings true joy to humanity.
What I find so wonderful about Holy Family is that it is both faithful and friendly. Indeed, there is something very special here, and we give thanks to God for it.
Our goal at Holy Family is to enable people in the West metro area of the Twin Cities to live out our beautiful Catholic Faith more fully. We welcome all who find joy and peace in our mission:
We believe that God the Father has revealed the Truth and given the promise of our fulfillment through the Catholic Church and conformity of man’s will to God’s will.
Toward that end, Holy Family is a vibrant parish of faith, love and fellowship, through our alignment with the Magisterium and the sacramental life, whose members actively live out our Catholic Faith in the world.
All who want to share in the pursuit of holiness will find a joyful community of support and care, and will be informed and inspired.
Again, I welcome you and your whole family to Holy Family. If you are considering joining us, I encourage you to get involved, not only in shared worship through our reverent, beautiful Mass and a sacramental life, but also in the many ministries and opportunities for fellowship offered in the parish.
In the love and fellowship of Jesus Christ, we welcome you!
Wishing you God’s blessings and peace,
Father Tom Dufner
Pastor