Church of the Home for Saturday, July 2

Happy Independence Day

Monday is The Fourth of July - one of the most patriotic days of the year. It’s also a day where we remember our freedom and those who have fought or currently fighting to defend that freedom.

It’s important to remember that July 4th isn’t just about fireworks and barbecues. It’s about gratitude for what we have, including our right to practice our faith freely which flows from human dignity. On July 4, 1776, the founders of America declared that human dignity needed to be safeguarded and defended. They knew that all people are created equal and endowed by God with certain unalienable Rights of Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.

In his letter to the Galatians, St. Paul tells us that "do not use freedom as an opportunity for the flesh; rather, serve one another through love." This is a call to action for everyone who is free. We must work together to ensure all people are able to obtain freedom. It's about looking beyond ourselves and what we want for only ourselves. We are blessed to live in a country where we can serve others with love through our diverse actions.

How can your Church of the Home participate and serve our community, country, and world to bring freedom to all?

The Catholic Telegraph's Dominick Albano highlights Three ways to make Independence Day celebrations a little more Catholic:

1. Visit a war memorial or military gravesite and pray for those who made the ultimate sacrifice

Catholics love praying for the dead. Part of that is because we believe in sainthood and eternal life and that our prayers in this life can have an effect on those in heaven, and that the prayers of those in heaven can have an effect on us! Almost no other Christian denomination shares in our devotion to the saints, so spend some time remembering those who have gone before you to defend the freedom you enjoy today.

2. Pray before your cookout

I know, this can get a little awkward. But sometimes you just have to go there. Yes, everyone else might be making noise or running around and it might make you or them a little uncomfortable. But taking the brief moment to stop, join hands with your family, and thank God for your meal is a subtle and powerful example of living the faith in the simple moments of everyday life.

3. Invite your friends or family to pray Archbishop Carroll’s prayer for America

Archbishop John Carroll was the first US Bishop. He became a Jesuit priest in 1773 and returned to his home in Maryland as a missionary. In 1789, Father Carroll was appointed the first bishop of the United States. He encouraged and led Catholics to participate in the larger community - to lend their talents to civic activities.

With this one, not only do you get to do a little praying, but you also get to share with people who Archbishop Carroll was, and perhaps even a little bit about his family.

Prayer for Our Government by Archbishop John Carroll

Learn More about Archbishop John Carroll

Join us for Mass this weekend in person at 4:00 PM on Saturday, 8:30 or 10:30 AM on Sunday, on www.gbres.org/live, our YouTube channel, and our Facebook page.

READINGS FOR THIS WEEKEND’S MASSES

Sunday Readings

Scripture Reflection by Roger Vanden Busch

Sunday Connection from Loyola Press

VIRTUALLY SUNDAY REFLECTION

Jesus's four instructions for discipleship also provide great advice for a happy and meaningful life. Join Steve as he reflects on this Sunday's Scripture readings.

Families

Weekend Gospel

Activity

This Weekend's Bulletin

(click to read)

Confirmation Pen Pal Project

As part of their sacramental prep, this year's Confirmation students participated in the PenPal Schools project. Students connected with PenPals from across the world to create original projects. The goal is to build global awareness and collaboration skills by facilitating authentic, cross-cultural experiences. Each project stems from the student's understanding of Catholic Social Teaching.

Connor Nelson's Video on Protecting the Ocean

AJ Boeckman & John Murphy's Video on the Oceans

Benefit Concert for Ukraine

On Monday, June 27, Resurrection took part in a Benefit Concert for Ukraine. The purpose was to raise humanitarian relief funds to support the people of Ukraine. Thanks to the local chapter of Catholic Relief Services in the Diocese of Green Bay, Catholic Charities/Diocese of Green Bay, St Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, the great musicians, bands, choir, and singers, and all the volunteers.

If you were unable to attend but would still like to Support Catholic Relief Services' lifesaving work for Ukrainian refugees go to https://crs.donordrive.com/team/6044 to donate. Your gift will be directly applied to assisting Ukrainian refugees.