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  • Pastor's Reflection - May 25, 2025

    Preparing for Pentecost: Remembering the Duquesne Weekend As Pentecost draws near, we remember and celebrate the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles in the Upper Room—a moment that changed the course of history and birthed the Church (Acts 2:1–4). But the Holy Spirit did not stop working after that first Pentecost. Throughout history, God has continued to breathe new life into His Church through movements of renewal and revival. One such moment occurred in February 1967 at The Ark and The Dove Retreat Center near Duquesne University  in Pittsburgh. Known today as the Duquesne Weekend , this retreat is widely recognized as the beginning of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal . A small group of Catholic students and professors, after prayerfully studying the Acts of the Apostles  and seeking a deeper experience of God, encountered the Holy Spirit in a life-changing way. Like the apostles, they experienced a new boldness, joy, and a release of spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4–11). This experience echoed Jesus’ promise: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses…”  (Acts 1:8).And it confirmed what St. Paul wrote: “The love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”  (Romans 5:5) That weekend sparked a global movement that has touched over 120 million Catholics worldwide. The Renewal invites every believer to open their life more fully to the transforming power of the Holy Spirit—not as a one-time event, but as a daily surrender. As we prepare for Pentecost, we are invited to make that same prayer: “Come, Holy Spirit. Rekindle your fire in me.” Let us reflect and pray: •          Am I open to receiving the Holy Spirit in a deeper way, like those at Duquesne? •          Do I desire the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience… (Galatians 5:22–23)? •          Have I asked the Lord to stir up the spiritual gifts He has placed in me (2 Timothy 1:6)? This Pentecost, let us not merely commemorate an event—we are invited to experience it. Just as the Spirit filled the Upper Room and The Ark and The Dove, He longs to fill your heart  today. “If you then… know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?” (Luke 11:13) Come, Holy Spirit! in Christ, Fr. James Northrop, Pastor

  • Jubilee of Hope Pilgrimage

    Join Us! June 4, 2025 We are excited to invite you to a special Parish Family #32 event  – the Holy Door Pilgrimage for the Jubilee of Hope  to the Church of the Vietnamese Martyrs  in Tukwila on Wednesday, June 4, 2025 . This meaningful pilgrimage has been approved by Father Jim Northrop , who will accompany our group alongside Father Anh Tran . We hope many of our parishioners, along with family and friends, will take part in this spiritual journey with fellow pilgrims from Sacred Heart  and St. Aloysius  parishes. 📍 Itinerary: 9:30 AM  – Depart from Sacred Heart Church (carpooling encouraged) 10:30 AM  – Arrive at Vietnamese Martyrs Church Tour includes: Toma Thien Educational Center Our Lady of Lavang Grotto (with Rosary prayer) Church grounds 12:00 PM  – Mass (Presided by Fr. Jim Northrop) 1:00 PM  – Lunch ( please bring your own sack or box lunch ) 1:30 PM  – Depart for return 📌 No RSVP required 📍 Address : 6841 S 180th Street, Tukwila, WA 98188 We look forward to a grace-filled day of prayer, community, and renewal as we pass through the Holy Door together. Please contact parish office for more information Sacred Heart (360) 825-3759 + St. Barbara (360) 886-2229 + St. Aloysius (360) 829-6515

  • Pastor's Reflection - June 1, 2025

    Honoring Our Knights of Columbus   This week, we take a moment to recognize and honor the Knights of Columbus in our parish—a brotherhood of Catholic men who exemplify faith in action, service in community, and dedication to the Church.   From organizing parish events and fundraisers to supporting families in need, the Knights quietly and humbly extend their hands wherever they are called. Whether it's hosting pancake breakfasts, providing scholarships, or standing in defense of the unborn and the vulnerable, their service is an ongoing testament to the ideals of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. Their efforts strengthen our parish family in ways both seen and unseen. They are ushers at Mass, mentors to the youth, caretakers of our grounds, and tireless advocates for the dignity of all human life. Their commitment is not only organizational—it is deeply spiritual.   To all our Knights: thank you. Your witness of faith, service, and brotherhood is a gift to our community. May God bless your work and continue to guide you in all you do.   Vivat Jesus!   In Christ, Fr. James Northrop, Pastor

  • Pastor's Reflection - June 8, 2025

    In this time of Eucharistic Revival across the United States, we are being invited to rediscover not just the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, but the healing power that flows from His Body and Blood. At the heart of this revival is a call to encounter Jesus personally and deeply—especially as our Divine Physician. Dr. Bob Schuchts, who recently spoke at the 2024 Eucharistic Congress, reminded us that the same Jesus who walked the streets of Galilee, healing bodies and restoring souls, is truly present to us today in the Eucharist. The healing that people experienced in the Gospels wasn’t just physical—it was holistic. Jesus touched every part of the person: body, soul, and spirit. And He continues to do that now. One Gospel story that powerfully illustrates this is the healing of the woman with the hemorrhage (Mark 5:25–34). Isolated and considered unclean, she reached out in faith and touched the hem of Jesus’ garment. In that moment, healing power flowed from Him. Her body was restored, her soul was renewed, and she was brought back into community. According to tradition, this woman may have been Veronica—the same woman who would later wipe Jesus’ bloody face on His way to Calvary. The One who stopped her bleeding would one day bleed for her, and for all of us. This healing love is not a thing of the past. The Catechism tells us that the sacraments—especially the Eucharist—are “powers that come forth from the Body of Christ” (CCC 1116). Those very words echo the Gospels' description of Jesus’ healing touch. The Eucharist is not merely symbolic. It is Jesus—alive, present, and powerful. He heals today. What do all the healing stories in Scripture have in common? Four things: 1.        Jesus is the healer —He is always the source. 2.        Faith opens the door —either the faith of the individual or those around them. 3.        Wholeness is the goal —healing brings restoration in body, soul, and spirit. 4.        Communion is the fruit —with God, with others, and within ourselves. Every time we come to Mass, we have an opportunity to receive this healing. But we must come with expectant faith. Prepare your heart before Mass. Offer your brokenness, your wounds, your strained relationships, and your areas of inner conflict. Listen for Jesus’ voice in the readings and prayers. During the Eucharistic Prayer, imagine placing your hurts on the altar. And when you go forward to receive Jesus, remember: this is the same Jesus who healed the sick, who forgave the sinner, who brought the outcast home. Let your “Amen” be a bold act of faith: “Jesus, I believe You are here. I believe You can heal me.”  Whether your healing is dramatic or subtle, Jesus is at work in your heart. He is drawing you into greater wholeness and deeper communion. St. Augustine once said, “What you have received, you have now become.”  You are a living member of the Body of Christ. As you are healed, you are also sent—to bring healing and communion to others. Let us be a people who approach the altar with faith and leave it transformed. Jesus is still healing today. Will we reach out and touch Him? Come, Lord Jesus. Heal your people. Make us whole. in Christ,Fr. James Northrop, Pastor

  • Search & Serve Retreat

    Is God calling you to be a Sister? Join the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul  for a unique opportunity to Search your heart, Explore your future, Stay with the Sisters, and Serve those living in poverty —all in one powerful retreat experience. 📍 San Francisco Bay Area, CA 📅 May 21–26, 2025 👩 For Single Catholic Women, Ages 18–40 This 6-day Vocation Discernment Retreat  invites young adult Catholic women to dive deeper into their faith and calling through prayer, service, and community life alongside the Daughters of Charity. What’s Included: ✅ Housing ✅ Meals ✅ Daily transportation to ministry sites ✅ The experience of a lifetime 👉 Ready to take the next step? Visit Daughters-Of-Charity.com/retreats  to complete the Interest Form and receive more information. 📧 Questions? Contact Sr. Lisa Laguna  at Srllaguna@doc1633.org

  • Pastor's Reflection - May 4, 2025

    A Shepherd’s Legacy: Honoring Pope Francis   A little over a  week ago, the world bid farewell to a beloved shepherd — Pope Francis. His passing leaves a profound silence in our hearts, but also a vibrant echo of his life’s message: mercy, humility, and the boundless love of Christ. Pope Francis showed us that greatness is not in power, but in service. From his first words as pope — “Pray for me” — he invited us all into a journey of humility and compassion. He championed the marginalized, the poor, and the forgotten, reminding the world that in the face of suffering, Christians are called to respond with action, tenderness, and unwavering hope. In a time often clouded by division and noise, Pope Francis was a beacon of simplicity. His witness taught us that the Gospel is not complicated: it is love lived daily, especially toward those who can offer us nothing in return. As we reflect on his life and leadership, we are challenged to continue his legacy. Let us be bridges of dialogue, instruments of peace, and bearers of joy in a world that so desperately needs it. Let us walk together in faith, just as Pope Francis so often encouraged — trusting not in our own strength, but in the ever-faithful love of God. Today, we do not only mourn. We also give thanks. We thank God for the life of Pope Francis, who reminded us — again and again — that the Church is a "field hospital," a place of healing and hope for all. May his spirit live on in each of us, and may we honor his memory by being the Church he dreamed of: a Church that goes forth, reaching out to embrace the world with the heart of Christ. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.May he rest in peace. Amen. in Christ,Fr. James Northrop, Pastor

  • Pastor's Reflection - Easter 2025

    The Joy of the Resurrection   Jesus Christ has risen from the dead! Alleluia! On behalf of the staff, we wish you and your family a most blessed and joyful Easter. I wish to remind you as well that Easter is a season, so celebrate big this core Truth of our faith.   Over twenty years ago during my first time in Enumclaw at Sacred Heart parish, I had an incredible Easter Sunday experience I will never forget. On Easter Sunday I woke up after a beautiful (but lengthy) Easter Vigil Service after only a few hours of sleep. I have a series of songs I play to celebrate Easter, and I found a new one to add to my collection called “Arise My Love” by a Christian group named Newsong. As the song was playing, the most glorious rays of sunshine began beaming through the kitchen window, and I physically felt the warmth and joy of the Holy Spirit in a most incredible way.   I stepped back from the window with tears streaming from my eyes and was filled with newfound joy at the power of the Resurrection. I began to think about the disciples as word began to spread that Jesus had fulfilled his promise and risen from the dead. When he died on the cross, all of their dreams were shattered and all hope seemed to be lost. Just like the rays of sunshine that were breaking through the kitchen window, the joy and enthusiasm began to beam in the hearts and minds of the disciples as they realized their lives would never be the same. Fear and death were replaced by love and life in abundance.   What happened to me on that particular Easter Sunday morning was a tremendous gift from the Lord and I will never forget it. It is part of the never-ending joy of knowing Jesus and the power of his resurrection (c.f. Philippians 3:10).   May this Easter season be a time for all of us to be renewed in our faith in the resurrection of Jesus from the dead and the joy and power of his victory over sin and death.   in Christ, Fr. James Northrop Pastor

  • Pastor's Reflection - April 27, 2025

    Embracing the Ocean of Divine Mercy In her humble obedience and profound love for Christ, St. Faustina Kowalska was chosen to be the Apostle of Divine Mercy for our times. Through her diary, Divine Mercy in My Soul , the Lord speaks to us still, reminding the world that His mercy is not only abundant—it is unfathomable. Jesus told St. Faustina, “The greater the sinner, the greater the right he has to My mercy” (Diary, 723). What a radical and liberating message this is! In a world that so often measures worth by perfection, God flips the narrative—inviting the broken, the weary, the fallen to come to Him not with fear, but with trust. Divine Mercy is not earned; it is a gift, flowing from the pierced heart of Christ. St. Faustina describes God’s mercy as an ocean—vast, deep, and without end. No sin is too great, no failure too final, that it cannot be swallowed up in this ocean of love. But Divine Mercy is not just for our personal consolation; it is also a call to mission. Jesus said, “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful”  (Luke 6:36). We are called to extend mercy—in our homes, in our communities, in our churches. This means forgiveness when it's difficult, patience when it's inconvenient, and compassion when it's costly. In this Easter season, as we bask in the light of the Resurrection, may we draw near to the fountain of mercy that flows from Christ’s side. Let us take refuge in His mercy and become living reflections of it to the world. As St. Faustina reminds us: “Mankind will not have peace until it turns with trust to My mercy”  (Diary, 300). Let us be apostles of that mercy—beginning today. You’re invited to join us Sunday, April 27, 2025 at 3PM at Sacred Heart Parish for a celebration of Divine Mercy. We will have Adoration, sing the Chaplet and have a brief talk on the importance of Divine Mercy. Jesus, I trust in You. in Christ,Fr. James Northrop, Pastor

  • Pastor's Reflection - May 11, 2025

    A Mother’s Love: A Reflection for Mother’s Day Dear Parish Family, As we celebrate Mother’s Day, we pause to give thanks for the beautiful gift of motherhood—a reflection of God’s own love made visible in our lives. Whether we think of our own mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, or spiritual mothers, today is a day to honor those women whose love has shaped our hearts and helped form our faith. In Scripture, we see glimpses of the sacred role mothers play: from the quiet strength of Mary, the Mother of God, to the protective love of the mother in the Book of Maccabees, who encouraged her sons to remain faithful even in the face of death. Motherhood, in all its forms, is a calling to nurture life, to bear witness to hope, and to teach by example the mercy and compassion of God. Pope Saint John Paul II once said, “Every human being is entrusted to the loving care of a mother.” In this trust, God shows us that love begins in the cradle of the family, and mothers are often the first to teach us how to pray, how to love, and how to believe. To all mothers in our parish: thank you. Thank you for the countless unseen sacrifices, for the strength found in your prayers, and for your tireless witness to the Gospel in everyday life. We also remember those who have gone before us, especially the mothers now at rest in the Lord’s embrace. May their legacy of love live on in us. On this special day, may Mary, our Blessed Mother, intercede for all mothers—those rejoicing, those grieving, those waiting, and those hoping. And may God bless you all with peace, strength, and abundant joy. On a personal note, thank you to all of you who have asked about and prayed for my mom, who is struggling with dementia. I appreciate your concern and all the wisdom many of you have shared regarding your own journeys in saying goodbye to your moms and navigating the difficult transition of watching them lose their independence and face the challenges of aging. In the Order of Christian Funerals , there is an introduction to the Vigil for the Deceased that I always remember: “My brothers and sisters, we believe that all the ties of friendship and affection which knit us as one throughout our lives do not unravel with death. Confident that God always remembers the good we have done and forgives our sins, let us pray, asking God to gather (name of deceased) to himself.” In Christ, Fr. James Northrop, Pastor

  • PFAC Minutes 5/1/2025

    Council Meeting: Parish Family Planning, Data Collection, and Integration   Parish Family Advisory Council Meeting – Key Points & Process Overview 1. Meeting Facilitation and Icebreaker The meeting opened with the "Name Game" icebreaker to build familiarity and comfort among members. Three rounds: state your name, share the origin of your name, and choose an alternative name if desired. Participants shared personal stories, family traditions, and preferences related to their names. 2. Establishing Team Norms Four team norms were set: Respectful and fair communication, ensuring all voices are heard. Active listening and openness to constructive criticism. Balanced participation: avoid over- or under-speaking; encourage both extroverts and introverts. Proactive communication: keep members informed, share minutes, and ensure meeting readiness. Norms will be revisited at the September meeting or earlier if needed. 3. Three-Year Parish Family Plan Overview The council’s work is part of a three-year plan, currently focused on "Who Are We?" (Step 2 of the Archdiocese’s process). Plan structure: May: Demographic survey to capture a snapshot of parish families. June: "What are our gifts?"—gathering input on parish strengths and ministries. September: Review opportunities and challenges, using data to identify needs and future directions. The process is flexible, with timelines adjustable as needed. 4. Data Collection and Surveys Demographic Survey (May) Purpose: Gather a current snapshot of parish families for planning and ministry development. One response per family; anonymity optional. Collection methods: Paper forms at Mass, meetings, and events. Electronic options: QR code, website, SurveyMonkey, or Parish Stack (where available). Data entry support will be organized as needed. Collection period: All of May, with data collated by early June. "What Are Our Gifts?" Survey (June) Purpose: Identify parish strengths, ministries, and unique gifts. Collection via focus groups, after-Mass sessions, and group meetings (e.g., women’s groups, Knights of Columbus). Main collection weekend: June 21–22, with flexibility for each parish. Data Collation Data will be collated by parish and as a combined set. SurveyMonkey or similar tools preferred for analysis. Data entry volunteers will be coordinated. 5. Viability Metrics and Parish Data Reviewed Archdiocesan viability metrics for each parish: Sacramental participation (First Communion, Confirmation, OCIA, etc.) Mass attendance and church capacity Maintenance costs and property status (green/yellow/red/black coding for building condition) Demographic data from the US Census for parish boundaries (e.g., religious affiliation, language, ethnicity) Noted discrepancies and need to verify some reported numbers. Maintenance and property reports to be reviewed in detail at a future meeting. 6. Integration and Unification of Parishes The council is tasked with fostering a unified parish family beyond individual parishes. Representatives are encouraged to visit other parishes, share experiences, and promote cross-parish collaboration. Issues affecting the whole parish family (e.g., welcoming committees, ministries, major expenses) should be brought to the council for discernment. Emphasis on flexibility: some initiatives may remain parish-specific for now, with the goal of eventual integration. 7. Communication Plan Standardized bulletin and pulpit announcements drafted to inform parishioners about the process and upcoming surveys. Messaging avoids implying decisions about facilities/buildings to prevent confusion or concern. Emphasis on the "Partners in the Gospel" journey and the need for parishioner input. Announcements to be included in bulletins, at Mass, and via email blasts. Consideration of a combined bulletin and parish directory in the future to foster unity. 8. Meeting Logistics and Scheduling Next meetings scheduled for June 5 and September 4 (subject to change). Meetings to be held at a central location for convenience, with openness to rotating venues. Hybrid (in-person/Zoom/Teams) participation supported. Each parish to ensure representation at all Masses and events for survey distribution. 9. Implementation Details and To-Dos Finalize and edit the demographic survey form (including QR code and clear instructions). Print and distribute forms at all parishes; ensure sufficient pens/pencils and collection boxes. Assign point persons for each Mass/event to oversee survey distribution and collection. Explore and confirm digital survey platforms and data collation methods. Prepare and disseminate standardized communication materials. Plan for data entry and collation support. Begin planning for the "What are our gifts?" collection in June, including scheduling and facilitation.   Next Arrangements & Action Items Demographic Survey (May)  [ ] Finalize and edit the demographic survey form (including QR code and clear instructions). [ ] Distribute printed surveys at all Masses, meetings, and events throughout May. [ ] Ensure digital survey option is available (SurveyMonkey or equivalent) and linked via QR code/website. [ ] Assign point persons for survey distribution and collection at each parish and Mass. [ ] Organize data entry volunteers for collating paper survey responses. [ ] Ensure survey is available in Spanish and other necessary languages. [ ] Monitor and support survey participation, aiming for maximum family responses. Data Verification and Communication  [ ] Verify and, if necessary, correct Archdiocesan viability metrics and property data. [ ] Prepare and send standardized bulletin and pulpit announcements to all parishes. [ ] Follow up with Father Steve and other clergy to ensure pulpit announcements are made. [ ] Continue to communicate progress and next steps to all parishioners via multiple channels. "What Are Our Gifts?" Survey (June)  [ ] Plan and schedule "What are our gifts?" sessions for June (main weekend: June 21–22). [ ] Coordinate with group leaders (e.g., women’s groups, Knights) for additional survey sessions. [ ] Begin planning for scheduling and facilitation of these sessions. Ongoing and Future Planning  [ ] Explore options for a combined parish bulletin and directory for future unity efforts. [ ] Review and revisit team norms at the September meeting or earlier if needed. [ ] Confirm next meeting date, location, and facilitator (June 5, with Debbie as facilitator).

  • Archbishop Etienne's Easter Message

    Archbishop Paul D. Etienne invites the faithful to rejoice in the Risen Jesus and reflect on the gifts of resurrection, salvation, and life. For ways to celebrate the Easter Season please go archseattle.org/easter .

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