St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in Kissimmee recently shared some expressions of gratitude from their pastor. 

"Thank you to all who participated in the Rosary Campaign in October," the Rev José Bautista said in his Nov. 9 letter to the church. "We were able to offer our Blessed Mother 1,566 'Electronic Rosaries'  prayed by many more parishioners and their families." 

The pastor also thanked the Lopez family for their donation of the crown for the Mary statue and encouraged all individuals to continue in praying the Rosary. Whether doing so the traditional way with a physical rosary or electronically, Bautista noted that praying the Rosary is a powerful tool for those seeking to bring their requests before God, thanks to the role that our Blessed Mother plays in interceding on our behalf. 

Additionally, Bautista thanked Lillian Oquendo for her donation of the Rose Window. He expressed hope in completing the structure and said that the four lower windows could cost approximately $7,000 each. 

"If any family or parish ministry wishes to embellish our temple donating a window in honor or in the memory of a loved one, please contact me or Joe Cruz at the parish office," he said. 

Bautista stated that we should continue to pray for those who are leading our country, that their hearts would turn to God for spreading truth, justice and peace. 

In memorial of Veterans Day, the pastor encouraged the congregation to lift up in prayer all those individuals who fought for the freedom of America. We must never tire of the work that we are called to do as children of God, and this is just what those who have served to protect our nation have done in sacrificing their safety and, in some cases, their lives to defend our freedom. 

"Let us keep our lamps ready (faith strong and tirelessly working for the Lord) to welcome Him when He comes in glory," Fr. Bautista concluded.