Foundations
 
The gospel today includes Peter’s revelation that Jesus is the Christ—in English, the “anointed one”—sent by God to save his people.  Peter was responding to Jesus’ insightful question we’re all meant to answer: “Who do you say I am?”
 
And it was Peter who was the first to announce the news publically at Pentecost when, filled with the Holy Spirit, he found the courage to tell the world:  “Let the whole house of Israel know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ” (Acts 2:36).
 
The Church was built on Peter’s faith, and today we find ourselves on solid rock—a firm foundation that is stable in a world with cultures and times that move and sway.  As we know, the Church is often very careful and cautious, but at the same time she’s open to discussion and conversation.  She thinks and prays her way through times and circumstances, because she’s universal—Catholic—and is looking out for everyone.  She is committed to following Christ and announcing who he is to anyone who will listen.
 
As our parish goes through a time of transition from one pastor to another, what we stand on is the foundation of our faith, but also the strong foundation of this parish community which has seen a lot of changes, developments, and growth since the first Mass in the converted dining hall of the Buggy Whip Tavern (now undergoing its own renovations and changes).
 
What has kept this community together is your commitment—to faith, to helping one another, to Catholic education and formation, to advocating for justice, and to actively growing as disciples of Jesus Christ by being involved in our worship life, community life, and serving others here and outside St. Hubert Parish. 
 
So, you are the foundation that has kept St. Hubert vibrant.  The Kingdom of God is growing here through all of you.  And I am very blessed to have been invited to be with you, following in a line of pastors who have given their best to discern the movement of the Holy Spirit.  As pastors, we’re meant to help meet your needs and to discover where God is leading us together. 
 
It’s been quite a gift and blessing to be able to be with Fr. Rizzo during this time of transition, because he cares very deeply about all of you and is anchoring me to the foundation of what makes this parish so strong.  So along with Fr. Fred, our great deacons and every single person on the parish staff, the school and parish councils, and all of you—your mentoring, advice, patience, and support mean everything.
 
We’re all headed to answering Jesus’ important question, “Who do you say I am?”  And we’re on a great and important journey to discovering it together in all its fullness.
 
“The Lord Be with You!”
—Fr. Mike