From The Pastor's Desk

Sunday, May 3 2026                                                                        Open This Week's Bulletin

I am the way and the truth and the life.

As a priest—and as a consecrated religious with the Missionaries of La Salette—I have had to say “good-bye” more times than I ever expected. Each farewell, each transition, each new assignment has carried both grace and weight. No matter how deeply one trusts in God’s providence, leaving behind a community, a place, or a cherished ministry is never easy.

In today’s Gospel from John the Evangeslist (Chapter 14) we find ourselves in a similarly tender and sacred moment. Jesus gathers with His apostles at the Last Supper, knowing that His earthly time with them is drawing to a close. These chapters—often called the “Last Supper Discourses”—are filled with profound intimacy, consolation, and truth. Jesus speaks not only as Teacher, and brother, but as one who loves deeply and prepares His friends for a difficult farewell.

“Do not let your hearts be troubled.”

These words are not spoken lightly. Jesus knows the confusion, fear, and uncertainty that are beginning to take hold of His disciples. He speaks of going to the Father, of preparing a place for them, of returning again. Yet His words stretch beyond their understanding. If clarity and understanding were complete, there would be no need for faith. And faith—trusting in what we cannot fully see or grasp—is at the very heart of the Christian life.

It is Thomas the Apostle who gives voice to this bewilderment: “Master, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” In many ways, Thomas speaks for all of us. We, too, wrestle with uncertainty. We, too, long for clarity when the path ahead seems hidden or uncertain.

And Jesus responds with one of the most powerful and defining revelations in all of Scripture: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

To come to the Father is not simply about knowing a path—it is about knowing a person. Faith grows when we listen attentively to the words of Jesus and look intently at His actions. In hearing Him and seeing Him, we come to know not only who He is, but who the Father is. Our faith deepens when we allow His life to shape our own.

Yet Jesus offers more than instruction—He offers assurance. The journey ahead will not be easy. There will be trials, challenges, even moments of fear and loss. But we are never alone. The Lord goes before us. He prepares the way. He walks beside us. And He draws us forward with hope and outstretched hands.

This same Spirit of guidance and unity is evident in our first reading from the Acts of the Apostles, as the early Church responds to a moment of tension and need. Through prayer,

discernment, and communal dialogue, the apostles establish the ministry of service—the beginning of what we now know as the diaconate. This moment reminds us that the Church is always called to grow, to adapt, and to listen to the Holy Spirit working within the community.

Today, we give thanks for that gift in a particular way. We are deeply grateful for the Permanent Deacons of Blessed Trinity Catholic Parish, who faithfully serve (and have served) with humility, compassion, and a servant’s heart. Their ministry among the poor, the hungry, the grieving, and all in need is a living witness to Christ the Servant.

As we continue our Easter journey, may we trust more deeply in the Lord who calls us forward—even through uncertainty. May we listen more attentively to His voice, see more clearly His presence, and follow more faithfully the One who is our way, our truth, and our life.

And when the time comes for us to say “good-bye” in any form, may we do so with hope—knowing that in Christ, every farewell is also a promise and a new beginning.

May God give you promise and new life,

Father Skip -- Pastor

Do not go where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. (Ralph Waldo Emerson)

Blessed Trinity: Triduum & Easter Season Beauty

We have received many heartfelt compliments on the beauty, creativity, and reverent elegance of the flowers, greenery, and sacred symbols adorning our church during the Triduum and throughout this Easter Season. What a grace it is to gather in such a prayerful environment, giving praise to the Lord and honoring the sacred mysteries of our Catholic faith.

First, sincere thanks to our parish community for your generous support of the biannual Second Collection for Flowers during Advent and Lent. Your generosity makes this sacred beauty possible.

Secondly, deep gratitude to our devoted ministry leaders and the many “sanctuary angels” whose loving hands and faithful hearts have created such an atmosphere of beauty, reverence, and inspiration for the glory of God and the enrichment of our worship.

We warmly invite others to join this meaningful ministry—whether as “garden angels” (caring for our exterior grounds) or “sanctuary angels” (enhancing our interior worship space). Come share in this joyful stewardship of God’s “little acre” known as Blessed Trinity Parish. Please contact the Parish Office this week for more information. Father Skip, Pastor

Congratulations to the BTCC Men’s Club – “Well Done!”

Congratulations and heartfelt appreciation to the Blessed Trinity Men’s Club for hosting another outstanding Annual Charity Golf Tournament this past Saturday at Ventura Country Club.

This year’s event brought together an even larger and more spirited gathering of golfers—ranging from seasoned players to enthusiastic participants—enjoying a day marked by fraternity, friendly competition, and joyful camaraderie on the fairways and greens.

The delicious luncheon and the many treasures featured in the silent auction added to the success and enjoyment of the day, making it a truly memorable parish event.

The Men’s Club continues to be a pillar of servant leadership within our parish, offering their time, talent, and treasure in support of numerous ministries, projects, and charitable outreach efforts. Their dedication reflects a deep love for Christ and His Church.

With gratitude and admiration, we thank you for your faithful Catholic presence and your living witness to the Gospel. Your ongoing commitment honors the legacy of past members and continues a proud tradition of faith in action. Father Skip, Pastor