General

Restored through Religious Liberty

June 30, 2022

Dear Parishioners and Friends of St. John’s,

Supreme Court Decision

On November 10, 1942, Winston Churchill said this: “Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But, it is perhaps, the end of the beginning.” I believe this is where we are today with regards to building a culture of life and ending abortion. I was thrilled to hear about the 6-3 Supreme Court ruling on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization which overturned Roe vs Wade. The decision puts the power to decide on the legality of abortions back into the state’s authority. Unfortunately, for us in Minnesota, nothing has really changed in regards to outlawing abortion and protecting the lives of the unborn. However, knowing that we have the ability to protect the unborn now at the state level, it is all the more important to elect pro-life officials who will work to defend and protect ALL Minnesotans, especially the unborn and the vulnerable. I am so proud of those of you who have worked for almost 50 years to overturn Roe vs Wade. I am grateful for your dedication to protecting life and we stand with you as a parish. We want to build a culture of life, and hence we are just beginning our Baby Gift Tree, which will collect items for mothers in difficult pregnancy situations. Thank you for your donations and for helping us to build a culture of life. Please also pray for our elected leaders. May they see the gift of every human person and work to protect all human life, especially human life in the womb.

If you have been impacted by abortion, know that we are here to help you and pray for you. Whether you have had an abortion, or someone you know did, we want to help you. We desire your healing and we trust in the mercy of God. Please reach out to the parish and we can help you find the appropriate resources to help you in your journey of healing.

Here is a video and statement from Archbishop Hebda standing in support of life at all stages.

Catholic Youth Summer Camp

This past week, I was blessed to be able to serve at Catholic Youth Summer Camp. I worked with leaders from our parish and missionaries serving with Damascus to help our youth encounter the Lord. We had Mass every day and time for personal prayer. We had adoration and did an outdoor Eucharistic procession. We had a lot of outdoor activities including paintball, canoeing, archery tag, and rock wall climbing. It was wonderful to see our youth growing in their relationship with God and each other. Here are a few fun pictures from the week.

As we celebrate our Independence this weekend, my prayer is that we would use our freedom to worship God and build up His kingdom here in New Brighton and beyond! Have a great holiday weekend!

As the Father loves me, so also I love you!

Father Paul Shovelain
Pastor