Bulletin Story
December 10-11, 2011
Partners in Mission: A Word from the Pastor
“I have been serving the people of La Sagrada Familia parish for eight years, since being appointed by Archbishop Dolan in 2003.  During these years we have had many different groups from Southeastern Wisconsin visiting our parish community.  No matter what part of the archdiocese they were from, whether they were just visiting or coming to give medical service, young or old, Anglo or Hispanic each visitor would say, “We have received much more than what we have given.”  Their comments came from the heart.
I think the warmth with which they were welcomed by our parishioners and the experience of meeting people who are willing to share their hopes and anxieties openly is one reason why they feel this way. At a deeper level, there is the joy of understanding that beyond cultural differences our community of faith and common humanity bind us together. At an even deeper level many people who visit La Sagrada Familia return with a different appreciation of their own lives in the U.S.A., of what is really important and what is secondary both in life and faith.
It may surprise you to know that our parishioners in La Sagrada Familia feel exactly the same way about welcoming visitors. They also sense that offering their houses and their warmth and friendship is very little compared with what they receive from those who come to visit. This sister parish relationship gives all of us the opportunity to open ourselves to the gifts of each other and we become better people and better Christians.”
Father Marti Colom, pastor of La Sagrada Familia
Since 1981, 14 priests have ministered in the parish celebrating the sacraments, taking care of pastoral needs and accompanying the people on their journey of faith.