My Brother Sir Knights:

Navigator's Message
Iwould like to thank St. Michael Council #9960 forallowing us to hold our January meetingand for putting on a fabulous meal. I would also like to thank Jacques Vadnais (council #4794) for donating back his half of the winnings of the 50/50 raffle - way to go Jacques.
We had a successful Communion Breakfast at St. Mary's on January 24th, we served about 50 people. The Honor Guard led by Assistant Commander Al Saulnier did an excellent job as usual. Ithank them and everyone connected with this event, also my deepest thanks to the parishioners of St. Mary's in Ware and a special heartfelt thanks to Father Jeff Ballou.
It is amazing how fast time is going by us, it seems like we just had Christmasand now our next meeting will be on Ash Wednesday - the beginning of the Lenten Season. As you know Father Riel is going around to as many councils in the Springfield Dioceses as he can, talking about the role that the Knights of Columbus should be taking in the evangelizationof our religion. It has been brought to my attention that we as good Catholic gentlemen should make time before our meetings to say the rosary, along with Fr, Riel, Fr. Rochambeau we, now, have a deacon in our assemblywho can lead us. This is a perfect way to show Fr. Riel that his message isn't only being heard by the Third Degree but also by the Fourth Degree, the Archbishop Williams Assembly, his assembly.So, starting in February before our meeting (at 6:00p.m.) we will be saying the rosary. Whoever can come early bring your rosary and if you don't remember to bring your rosary, we will have extras - just come.
Faternally,
Jerry Bernier
Faithful Navigator

FRIAR'S MESSAGE

Words of Wisdom:
Dear Brother Knights.

On Christmas Day, Bishop McDonnell inaugurated the process of evangelization called Christ Mass. The purpose is to reach out to those who have gradually slipped away from practicing their Faith. The transitional process, which is currently taking place in the Diocese, has caused many to become frustrated, angry, and rebelious. Bishop McDonnell understands the upheaval this transition is having on the people of the Diocese, and to this situation the process of evangelization is at hand. Extending the invitation should be done very gently, it should never be blunt, but as if you were inviting a close friend. If they refuse, then try again at another time. NEVER NAG A PERSON, IT WILL SHUT THEM OFF! If over time they still refuse, then pray that God will help them to change their minds. Never give up on the person!

If we turn Christ Mass into Mass Christ helps us to understand that it is through the Mass that we are unified with Christ. In the Scriptures, we encounter the Word of God, taught to us by Jesus Christ to teach and enlighten us to the Will of God in preparing us for erternal salvation in His Kingdom. In the Eucharist, itself, Jesus comes down to our level assuming the properties of the bread and the wine which is transformed into his Body and Blood to raise us up to His level. This can be used as a "selling point" to encourage people to come back.

HAVE A BLESSED AND A GOD FILLED NEW YEAR to my Brother Knights and their families.

Rev. Robert Riel, F. F.
Diocesan Liaison to the Knights of Columbus