It has been so good to be part of the New Melle Community for these last ten years and getting to know my neighbors has been a tremendous blessing. I have kept many of you in my prayers as I have heard about illness, injury, deaths in your family, or other difficulties; and prayed that you might know God’s presence and peace.
During the Lenten season, I offer extra hours in the Confessional for members of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish so that there are more opportunities to prepare for our Lord’s Resurrection on Easter Sunday. While I cannot celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) with non-Catholics, I want to extend an invitation to anyone who would like to talk or pray about anything whatsoever. This is not an attempt to “make you Catholic,” but simply to be a good neighbor. I will be available in the Confessional (no longer a “box”) on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays during Lent from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. and Saturday at 8:45 a.m. in the church. Please note that there will be some evenings I will not be available because of schedule conflicts. I will post the next available time to visit on the doors to the church.

Few things are more important than giving our time to people that matter in our lives. I am here for my parish family, and I am here for my neighbors. You are more than welcome just to come by and talk. Take 5 minutes or 50; I am here to listen, pray and visit with you about whatever you would like. There are so many things that can divide us that it makes strengthening the bonds of community that much more important.

May all of you have a Blessed Lent, and I hope to see you at a Fish Fry or around town.

Peace,
Fr. Tom Miller

P.S. If you are unfamiliar with the church, the Confessional is located just inside the church to the right of the baptismal font.