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July 29, 2021Parishioners and Friends,
I hope you are having a fun and healthy summer. I’m writing to wish you a happy 4th anniversary of MQOA! Four years ago, when I arrived in Salem, just as this parish was being born, I sent a letter much like this to introduce myself to you all and shared the story of L. David Marquet, Captain of the US Naval submarine the Santa Fe. He tells the story of asking someone on his crew why a job had not been done successfully and was told someone else was responsible; that “they” hadn’t brought the right part for that job. Captain Marquet says he replied “They? There’s no they on the Santa Fe!”
I hoped then you would find that idea as inspiring as I do; that everything that happens in our parish is the responsibility of each of us, and God calls each of us to work toward the mission of sharing Christ with others. Since that time, we’ve prayed so much for God to give us direction, gifts, resources, and, ultimately, a mission specific to this parish, and we believe God has: we’re called to be a parish centered on the Eucharist, who offers the Good News of Christ and healing to everyone.
That job, that mission, is ours; yours and mine. I believe that whole-heartedly, and it is what gets me out of bed every morning. I’m excited by the idea that God has given us this mission, which is a beautiful one, but not an easy one. Still, I know that along with this mission, God supplies us with everything we need to do what God calls us to do, specifically in the gifts, prayers and support of you, whether you are a longtime parishioner or a new friend.
I could never have dreamed, four years ago, that the world would look like it does today. And although our “how” has had to change (and change often!) in response to the state of the world and the needs of those we’re trying to reach, the “why” has only become more solid and strong. As we go along, I hear the word “they” less and less here, and the word “we” more and more, and I think that is a sign of our success.
As our 4th-anniversary approaches, I want to give you a sneak peek at what’s to come and invite you again to be part of the “we” that is MQOA. Please see the back of this page over and plan to visit us online at our website or social media for all the latest updates and information.
Thank you for being part of the “we” who work on this mission from God. Whatever comes next, we will work, walk, pray, and celebrate together.
Peace, Fr. Murray
