Fourth Sunday of Easter

News and Notes:  This weekend, we welcome our second grade children from the Religious Education programs of both parishes to the table of the Lord to receive their first Holy Communion.  Thanks to our Parish Grade Level Coordinators, Cindy Donovan (OLA) and Donna Hegan (SMG), and all the second grade catechists in both parishes for their ministry in preparing our children for this spiritual milestone in their young lives.  Let’s pray for these children, their parents and their families; that their regular attendance at Mass and frequent reception of the Eucharist will help them become committed disciples of Jesus and active participants in the mission of his Church.  I want to extend heartfelt thanks to all those who expressed condolences or sent Mass cards or an assurance of personal prayer to me and my family on the occasion of my father’s death.  My dad was a very faith-filled man, and so the gift of prayer is a beautiful way to honor his memory and intercede for his soul.  Here is the latest update on the 2015 Catholic Appeal:  As of April 21, 74 SMG donors had pledged $16,195, which is 58% of St. Maria’s goal of $28.078; 142 OLA donors had pledged $32,808, which is 59% of Our Lady’s goal of $55,512.  Thanks to all who have contributed to the annual Catholic Appeal thus far.  If you have not yet made a pledge, please do as soon as possible so that we can reach and even surpass our goal.  Pledge cards are available at the entrances of both churches.  You can also donate online on the homepage of our website, lynnfieldcatholic.org.   Blessings to all of you in the week ahead!