Parish Administrator’s Notes

Phil Grant, Pastoral Administrator and Safe Environment Coordinator

April 5, 2026

Happy Easter!‍ ‍

Alleluia! He is risen! I wish you, your family and your friends a joyful Easter Day and Easter season. It’s time to celebrate our Risen Lord!

Many thanks to our staff and volunteers for all they did to plan, prepare and do the many, complicated liturgies of Holy Week and Triduum. Thanks as well to everyone who worshiped with us during these days. We’re glad you’re here!

Acts of the Apostles and Us‍ ‍

Now that we’re in the Easter season, our first readings each weekend are from the Acts of the Apostles. In the Christian Scriptures, that’s the very next book after the four Gospels. (I recommend reading more than just what we hear at Mass. There are a lot of great stories and lessons in Acts.)‍ ‍

Note the continuity from Acts to today, including the teachings of the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965) There’s a consistent emphasis on “the church” as everyone, not just the hierarchy. Everyone’s important. The Holy Spirit works through everyone. We should listen to everyone. Popes Francis and Leo have emphasized synodality, a term that highlights the importance of attentive listening.

Accordingly, we’re all called to engage with our faith community. That can include worship, socializing, and listening. (For example: Mass, Lenten Fish Fries, and Bingo nights.)

In addition, we have many volunteer opportunities here at St. Matt’s. We’re a volunteer parish. That’s a great thing, as volunteerism promotes community.

Volunteerism also challenges the emphasis on consumerism in today’s American society. Our culture and technology strongly encourage a “buy, acquire, consume” mentality. As I understand the Bible, that’s not what we’re here for. Rather, we’re here to care for the poor, to minister to others, and to listen well and widely.

Have a great week! Thank you for your support!

Phil Grant, Administrator
Safe Environment Coordinator
pgrant@st-matts.org
651-224-9793