Dear Friends in Christ,

In the Gospel of John, Jesus tells us: “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10). These words are at the very heart of our faith. They remind us that life is not an accident, not a possession, but a sacred gift from God. Each of us has been created in God’s own image and likeness. That means every person—no matter their background, age, ability, or circumstance—is a beloved child of God, worthy of dignity, respect, and love.

This truth feels especially urgent as we grieve the recent tragedy at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis, where two children lost their lives and fourteen other children and two adults were injured. Events like this cut deeply into our hearts and remind us how fragile and sacred life truly is. They leave us searching for answers, but they also compel us to recommit ourselves to the Gospel truth that every life is holy, every life is precious, and every life reflects God’s love.

As disciples of Christ, we are called to be a people who witness to this truth in all that we do. To recognize the dignity of life is to recognize the call to love one another as Christ has loved us. This means honoring the uniqueness of each person, valuing our differences as gifts, and building a community where each person is supported, understood, and cared for. When we do this, we begin to live in the world God intended us to live in—a world where peace, compassion, and justice flourish.

This week, I invite you to pray for the families and community of Annunciation Church. But I also invite you to take one step here, in our own community, to make Christ’s words real: “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” Ask yourself: how can I make Christ’s promise of abundant life visible this week? Maybe it’s by taking time to listen to someone who feels overwhelmed. Maybe it’s offering encouragement to a young person finding their way. Maybe it’s choosing patience in a difficult moment, or praying intentionally for those who are suffering. Every choice rooted in love and reverence for life helps weave a stronger fabric of compassion—the kind of community Christ calls us to build.

May we never forget that our lives—and the lives of all those around us—are gifts from God. May we cherish them, protect them, and celebrate them as we follow Christ, who is the source of life in abundance.

In Christ’s peace,

Fr. Jeff