Dear OLP Family,

I remember reading this story about comedian Yakov Smirnoff, a Ukrainian-American comedian, actor and writer who began his career as a stand-up comedian in the Soviet Union. When he first came to the US, he was not prepared for the incredible variety of instant products available in American grocery stores.

Dear OLP Family,

Our parish buildings have been lying vacant from last summer. You must have seen the “Space available for rent” sign for some time now. We have received inquiries from interested parties. We are in the process of renting our space. God willing, it will happen from this summer onwards. Please say a prayer for a fruitful outcome.

Dear OLP Family,

Happy St. Patrick’s Feast on Wednesday, March 17, when “everyone is an Irish.” Our parish is celebrating this popular feast today and our Knights of Columbus is hosting it in our parish hall. And Happy St. Joseph’s Feast two days later on March 19! Lavish celebrations for these two feasts, especially for St. Patrick’s Day, are typical. But it is very important to reflect on the spiritual dimension of each feast.

Dear OLP Family,

I wish to share two reflections with you in this column:

First: Today, March 8, is International Women’s Day, an annual celebration to honor the achievements and contributions of women, while challenging the discrimination and oppression they continue to face. We salute all the women for their invaluable contributions to enrich our families and communities, and pray for them in a special way.

Dear OLP Family,

A parishioner told me how touching and meaningful was last Sunday’s post-Communion meditation on “A different approach to fasting” and suggested that I put it in our bulletin. It was sent to me by a friend some time back and I am very glad that many felt that it was a very beautiful and spiritually enriching way to meditate in the church as a community.