Word from the Pastor

Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Peace and blessings to you in the Lord.

Dear Parishioners,​
Ten years ago, I left St. Elizabeth of Hungary when I was assigned to Holy Family Parish. At that time, I entrusted St. Elizabeth to God's loving care and devoted myself wholeheartedly to the people of Holy Family. As your priest, I sought to give not only my time, but also my heart, my energy, and my whole self to the souls God had entrusted to me.

Now, as I return to St. Elizabeth, I have come to realize something beautiful: although I left St. Elizabeth, St. Elizabeth never left me. The memories, friendships, prayers, and faith we shared have remained alive in my heart. For that, I give thanks to God.

As a missionary sent by the Church, a pilgrim on the journey of faith, and a priest striving each day to live my vocation faithfully, I return with a grateful heart and a renewed commitment to serve you. It is a privilege to once again be part of this wonderful parish family a parish blessed by the richness of its three vibrant and diverse communities. I come not to begin something entirely new, but to continue the good work that God has already begun among us.

I do not come with a personal agenda. My desire is simply to serve Christ by serving you. Together, let us ask not only what St. Elizabeth can do for us, but also what each of us can do for St. Elizabeth. Every prayer, every act of kindness, every volunteer, every ministry, and every sacrifice strengthen our parish and helps build the Kingdom of God.

In today's Gospel, Jesus speaks of the treasure hidden in a field and the pearl of great price. Those who discovered the treasure recognized its incomparable value and gave everything to possess it. We, too, have found that treasure in Jesus Christ and in His Kingdom. The invitation is not for tomorrow, but for today. Time is precious, and tomorrow is never promised. Today is the day to deepen our faith, to love more generously, to forgive more readily, and to serve more faithfully. As the familiar saying reminds us, carpe diem seize the day.

My dear brothers and sisters, I invite you to walk with me as we continue this journey together.

Let us place ourselves at the service of one another, strengthen our parish community, and work side by side for the glory of God. Your hopes will become my hopes. Your joys and your sorrows will become my own. Together, with God's grace, we will continue to make St. Elizabeth a place where every person feels welcomed, loved, and drawn closer to Christ.

May the Lord bless you and your families through the powerful intercession of St. Elizabeth of Hungary. May she inspire us to live lives of charity, humility, and joyful service as we seek first the Kingdom of God.

I look forward to praying with you, serving alongside you, and growing together in faith.

May God bless you always.

Rev. Fritzner J. Bellonce
Pastor