Dear Parishioners and Friends, The Baptism in the Jordan River ended the private life of Jesus and began His public life. After many years of preparation Jesus begins the earthly mission of salvation which God the Father entrusted to Him. From now on Jesus will fulfill His mission. The baptism of Jesus was given by John the Baptist, the one who said “I am not worthy to loosen the thongs of his sandals.” Jesus became the humble Servant of His Father by expiating the sins of man. His submissiveness is apparent in his Incarnation and Birth, and in his humility throughout his entire life on earth until the moment when He offered Himself on the Cross. Today, St. John as well as Christ teach us this beautiful and true humble Christian attitude. Surely you have seen many different commercials on television encouraging Catholics who were baptized and perhaps confirmed, but somewhere along the way stopped coming to the Church. His Eminence Francis Cardinal George, as well as all responsible for our local Church in the Archdiocese of Chicago, became aware that this may be a way to reach lost lambs. But when the lost lamb decides to come to a Sunday Mass, maybe on the way he can visit the rectory, meet others in the parish hall. Let us be the first to be kind, understanding and welcoming. Evangelization begins with a friendly treatment to another person to whom we want to pass on the Good News of salvation. Not only the priests, but all baptized are responsible for the mission of the Church. I appeal to the ushers, all working in the parish office, the people in the pews -- with one word to all -- the spirit of openness, hospitality, friendliness, patience, kindness and the genuine Spirit of God. Just as the merciful father greeted his prodigal son who left his family’s home, repented, and returned, so all of us should greet each individual who desires to return. I appeal to all hardened and envious people who only search out mistakes in others and sins of the past. According to their theory, if someone sins once and did something bad he should leave. Jesus does not desire this. He wants the conversion and return of even the greatest sinner. Therefore, let us never close the way for those wanting to return. Let us show them our goodness and love, like we ourselves would meet on the day of the Last Judgment -- with love, understanding and forgiveness of the One who will come in glory to judge the living and the dead. Once more I express my heartfelt thanks to all who through their attitude and commitment are ministering to our St. Constance Parish and through their efforts ministering to the universal Church. Those who are not yet committed -- think where your talent would be useful. Maybe someone wants to be an usher, a lector, visit the sick, maybe someone would want to help in the parish office, maybe someone skilled with the computer, maybe some want to help in cleaning or clearing show, etc. Maybe someone is sick and can do none of these -- but all of us always can pray for others. May Jesus bless us all and our dear guests who visited us today.