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Entries for 'tbrotherton'
Posted on July 31, 2026 in: Pastor
Dear Parishioners:
Every year parishes within the archdiocese are asked to report on the spiritual and financial welfare of the parish. I also would like to report to you how Annunziata fulfilled its ministry this past year. This week I would like to share with you what has occurred sacramentally in our parish and in the next few weeks on our financial activities.
To begin with Annunziata parish is blessed with members who care for each other and strive for holiness in their lives. This is evident in how you speak about each other and your concern for each other’s welfare.
Daily the Eucharist is celebrated here at Annunziata. Regularly 30-40 people attend our 7:00 AM Liturgy. The mass is our greatest prayer act you might consider attending a daily mass. Also Eucharistic devotion occurs daily in our church. Likewise the rosary is recited daily and Marian Perpetual Help devotions occur every Tuesday.
This year our community was blessed and enriched through the following sacraments:
Baptism: 23 children and 1 adult entered into our faith community through the words spoken and the sacramental symbol of water; also 1 new member entered our Church through reception at the Easter Vigil.
Communion: 24 children received the Eucharist and 1 adult for the first time this past year.
Confirmation: 48 eighth grade students and 2 adults entered into full communion through the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Matrimony: 10 couples exchanged their vows with each other and received God’s blessing as they celebrated their love and commitment to each other. The fidelity of a married couple is a wonderful reminder of God’s loving relationship with us.
The sacraments of Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick are available daily. Confession is heard during the week and again on Saturday before the 5 PM liturgy, and on the last Sunday of every month. Anointing of the sick takes place at special services and when requested.
Our parish was also honored to have celebrated the Funeral Liturgies for 17 members of our community.
Our parish PSR also provided religious education for over 130 students from our parish. We likewise provide religious education and sacramental celebrations for the students at our Annunziata School.
As you can see our parish is blessed with many gifts and a vibrant faith. Let us continue to be good stewards of our Time, Talent and Treasure as we support each other on our faith journey. Anyone interested in being a minister here at the Church of the Annunziata should contact the parish office. We have much to thank the Lord and each other for; let us continue to pray for one another.
Blessings!
Msgr. John Shamleffer
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Posted on July 27, 2026 in: Pastor
Dear Parishioners:
It is getting close to that time of year again when our children will be preparing to return to school. For our college students, know that you are in our thoughts and prayers here at the Church of the Annunziata. This time in your life is a wonderful opportunity for growth and learning. May your faith also grow with you over the coming years. For our high school students you are at an exciting time in your lives, new schools, new friends, new subjects bring great energy and excitement in your lives. Hopefully, this period of growth and new horizons will help to bring about a greater maturity of faith and allow you the opportunity to give witness to your faith in your words and actions. For our elementary school students these are wondrous years, each one bringing new friends, knowledge and activities to your lives.
Our parish is blessed with a wonderful Parish School of Religion. I encourage all parents to make use of this school for your children. I also encourage you to attend Mass with them at our 9 AM family Mass. We have no greater gift to give, than to share with our children, our faith. If you have not already done so, please contact our director of religious education, Mrs. Caroline Hall, and she will help you to register your child.
May this school year be a blessed one for our educators, parents and especially our children, as we all walk and grow in faith.
Blessings!
Msgr. John Shamleffer
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Posted on July 27, 2026 in: Pastor
Dear Parishioners:
It is getting close to that time of year again when our children will be preparing to return to school. For our college students, know that you are in our thoughts and prayers here at the Church of the Annunziata. This time in your life is a wonderful opportunity for growth and learning. May your faith also grow with you over the coming years. For our high school students you are at an exciting time in your lives, new schools, new friends, new subjects bring great energy and excitement in your lives. Hopefully, this period of growth and new horizons will help to bring about a greater maturity of faith and allow you the opportunity to give witness to your faith in your words and actions. For our elementary school students these are wondrous years, each one bringing new friends, knowledge and activities to your lives.
Our parish is blessed with a wonderful Parish School of Religion. I encourage all parents to make use of this school for your children. I also encourage you to attend Mass with them at our 9 AM family Mass. We have no greater gift to give, than to share with our children, our faith. If you have not already done so, please contact our director of religious education, Mrs. Caroline Hall, and she will help you to register your child.
May this school year be a blessed one for our educators, parents and especially our children, as we all walk and grow in faith.
Blessings!
Msgr. John Shamleffer
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Posted on July 02, 2026 in: Pastor
Dear Parishioners:
I pray that this summer time is one of relaxation and recreation of body, mind and soul. This week as we celebrate our day of Independence I offer you this prayer. Have a blessed Fourth!
We lift up our hearts, O God, on this day of celebration in gratitude for the gift of being Americans.
We rejoice with all those who share in the great dream of freedom and dignity for all. With flags and feasting, with family and friends, we salute those who have sacrificed that we might have the opportunity to bring to fulfillment our many God-given gifts.
As we deny all prejudice a place in our hearts, may we also clearly declare our intention to work for the time when all people, regardless of race, religion or sex, will be granted equal dignity and worth.
Come, O gracious God, who led your children Israel from slavery, keep us free from all that might hold us in bondage.
Bless our country and join our simple celebration that we may praise you, our source of freedom, the One in whom we place our trust.
God Bless!
Msgr. John Shamleffer
Thanks to all who helped celebrate Deacon Tom’s 25th Deaconate Ordination and the 200th anniversary of our Archdiocese.
Welcome Back Msgr. Gardin!
Msgr. Gardin has retired and has moved to Ste. Genevieve du Bois. He will occasionally say Mass here at Annunziata!
Msgr. Gardin most recently retired as Pastor of Immaculata, but he did serve as Associate Pastor here at Annunziata years ago
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Posted on June 25, 2026 in: Pastor
Dear Parishioners:
It has been great seeing so many parishioners at our weekday masses this summer, thanks to all of you for your faith-filled lives. I also want to encourage us all to invite others to the faith. Our RCIA process begins this fall if you know of anyone interested in joining the church please invite them or contact the parish office and we will get in touch with them.
RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS—RCIA
This September we will again start the process for men and women who are inquiring about the Catholic Faith. RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) is the process through which adults enter into the Catholic faith. RCIA is a spiritual journey designed in phases and implemented through various rites. The participants' spiritual growth is encouraged and enhanced through weekly reflection on God's Word and the teachings of Catholic doctrine and traditions. If you have any questions, please contact the parish office.
Becoming a Catholic is one of the most profound and joyous experiences of life. Some are blessed enough to receive this great gift while they are still infants, and over the course of time they grow into a recognition of the enormous grace that has been bestowed upon them, of the dignity and wonder of their identity as Catholics.
If you know someone who might be interested in joining the Church, be that family member, fellow worker, or neighbor, please contact the parish office with their name and phone number. Our parishioners are always the best evangelists. Your faith and how you live it will speak volumes to those around you.
Let us pray for those who are contemplating joining the Catholic faith and encourage them through our words, actions and prayers. God bless you for sharing your faith!
Msgr. John Shamleffer
It was uplifting to see so many enter the Church this past year just a quick reminder that all are invited and that our entire community supports you!
Ten top reasons to come to RCIA—not in any particular order.
- You want to become Catholic.
- You are marrying someone outside the faith and they desire to know more about our faith.
- You are Catholic, and did not receive all of the Sacraments of Initiation—Reconciliation, Eucharist, and Confirmation.
- You have children to teach and don’t know the faith well enough.
- You have a friend or family member interested in learning more about the faith, who would be more comfortable if you came with them.
- You have experienced a loss of some kind in your life and need a small faith community.
- Your spouse is not Catholic, and might be interested in joining our Church as your children are receiving first communion or confirmation.
- You are Catholic, and would like to learn current Church teaching and practice.
- You’ve heard it is a great experience.
- God is calling you.
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Posted on June 18, 2026 in: Pastor
Dear Parishioners:
A blessed Father’s Day to all of our fathers: both those whom are living and those whom have gone before us in faith. Celebrating Father’s Day and Mother’s Day gives all of us an opportunity to give thanks for all the support, blessings and love our parents have shared with us. Fathers and mothers have that wonderful opportunity to continue God’s greatest gift, the gift of life; a life and love which both our God and our parents constantly share with us. A simple recognition of thanks is the best gift we can give our parents, a heartfelt appreciation for all they do for us. In a special way this Sunday both in word and at Mass, let us give thanks for the gift of our Fathers.
We are blessed as a Church to have as the patron of father’s St. Joseph, the husband of Mary and foster father of Jesus. While there is no written word, in the scriptures, of Joseph speaking, much is written about how he responded to God’s call in his life and the utter care he gives to Jesus and Mary. From the birth of Jesus to the death of Joseph the actions of Joseph tell the story of a loving father and husband. Perhaps you can take some time this week to review in the scriptures the stories told of loving fathers and let all of us give thanks for those faith-filled and loving fathers in our lives.
Blessings!
Msgr. John Shamleffer
Please remember to return your donation for the ACA (Archdiocesan Annual Campaign) so far only about one-sixth of our parishioners have responded. I would love to have a 100% participation even if you cannot give this year please return your cards to the parish. This collection helps the neediest in our Archdiocese, if you have any questions about this collection please contact me. Thank you.
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Posted on June 11, 2026 in: Pastor
Dear Parishioners:
On July 18, 2026 the Archdiocese of St. Louis will mark its 200th anniversary commemorating the founding of the diocese in 1826 by Pope Leo XII. This once-in-a-generation Bicentennial Jubilee is an invitation to reflect on 200 years of Catholic faith, celebrate the present, and renew the mission of Christ for the future.
Historical Context
- 1764: First Mass in St. Louis on the site of the Basilica of St. Louis, King of France (Old Cathedral).
- 1818: St. Louis became the episcopal seat of a growing frontier Church.
- 1826: Pope Leo XII established the Diocese of St. Louis, entrusted to Bishop Joseph Rosati with a vast missionary territory from the Louisiana border to the Rocky Mountains.
- 1847: Pope Pius IX elevated St. Louis to an archdiocese
Here at The Church of the Annunziata we celebrate almost 100 years of serving the people of Ladue and our surrounding area. In order to gather as a community to give thanks for 200 years as a diocese and 100 years as a parish. Our parish Council is inviting all to a gathering following our 5pm Mass on Saturday June 20, 2026. This celebration will take place in our parish hall and courtyard with food and drink for all. This is an opportunity to give thanks to each other and to all who have helped to form us.
I would especially like to give thanks to all of you who share your gifts with our community and for all those who have gone before us. Hope you can join us on the 2oth.
God Bless!
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Posted on June 04, 2026 in: Pastor
Dear Parishioners:
On Sunday June 7, 2026 the United States Catholic Church’s liturgical calendar observes Corpus Christi (Latin for ‘Body of Christ’), also known as the Feast of the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. What is it?
“On this feast, we celebrate our covenant with God established through the shedding of Jesus’ blood, and through his eagerness to feed us with the only bread that will satisfy our hunger. We renew this covenant by participating in the banquet of his body and blood, a banquet that through his death, gives us life.”
Today we are celebrating a solemn feast that expresses the awesome wonder of the People of God: a wonder filled with gratitude for the gift of the Eucharist. In the Sacrament of the Altar, Jesus wanted to perpetuate his living presence in our midst in the same form in which he gave himself to the Apostles in the Upper Room. He left to us what he did at the Last Supper and we faithfully renew his action.
According to established custom, the Solemnity of Corpus Christi consists of two moments: the Mass, in which the offering of the Sacrifice takes place and the procession, which manifests the public adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
Days, years and centuries go by, but this most holy act in which Jesus condensed his entire Gospel of love does not pass away. He never ceases to offer himself, the Lamb immolated and risen, for the salvation of the world. With this memorial the Church responds to the command of God's Word, which we heard in today’s Second Reading: "Do this in remembrance of me" (Cor. 11: 24).
From the Eucharist, "the source and the summit of all preaching of the Gospel”, our Parish Community of Annunziata daily draws the strength and enthusiasm for our call to witness to Christ in the world.
A reminder that during the day our Church is open for Eucharistic Adoration here at Annunziata all are welcome to partake in this time of prayer. In a special way thanks to all who partake in our Eucharistic Adoration here at The Church of the Annunziata your prayer is a gift to all of us in the Church.
Blessings!
Msgr. John Shamleffer
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Posted on May 28, 2026 in: Pastor
Dear Parishioners:
On Sunday June 7, 2026 the United States Catholic Church’s liturgical calendar observes Corpus Christi (Latin for ‘Body of Christ’), also known as the Feast of the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. What is it?
“On this feast, we celebrate our covenant with God established through the shedding of Jesus’ blood, and through his eagerness to feed us with the only bread that will satisfy our hunger. We renew this covenant by participating in the banquet of his body and blood, a banquet that through his death, gives us life.”
Today we are celebrating a solemn feast that expresses the awesome wonder of the People of God: a wonder filled with gratitude for the gift of the Eucharist. In the Sacrament of the Altar, Jesus wanted to perpetuate his living presence in our midst in the same form in which he gave himself to the Apostles in the Upper Room. He left to us what he did at the Last Supper and we faithfully renew his action.
According to established custom, the Solemnity of Corpus Christi consists of two moments: the Mass, in which the offering of the Sacrifice takes place and the procession, which manifests the public adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
Days, years and centuries go by, but this most holy act in which Jesus condensed his entire Gospel of love does not pass away. He never ceases to offer himself, the Lamb immolated and risen, for the salvation of the world. With this memorial the Church responds to the command of God's Word, which we heard in today’s Second Reading: "Do this in remembrance of me" (Cor. 11: 24).
From the Eucharist, "the source and the summit of all preaching of the Gospel”, our Parish Community of Annunziata daily draws the strength and enthusiasm for our call to witness to Christ in the world.
A reminder that during the day our Church is open for Eucharistic Adoration here at Annunziata all are welcome to partake in this time of prayer. In a special way thanks to all who partake in our Eucharistic Adoration here at The Church of the Annunziata your prayer is a gift to all of us in the Church.
Blessings!
Msgr. John Shamleffer
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Posted on May 21, 2026 in: Pastor
Dear Parishioners:
This past Saturday Archbishop Mitchell Rozanski ordained one young man to the priesthood. Having Michael Lagermann answer the call to service in the Church is a wonderful gift to our local Church community. He has promised to pledge his life in dedication to the Lord and to the people of God. As he begins his priestly ministry let us keep him in our prayers.
This week Msgr John Leykam will celebrate the Fifty-Fourth anniversary of his ordination and I celebrated the Forty-Third anniversary of my ordination. Being a priest in service to God has enabled me to be with his people at important times and places in their lives. I have also been blessed to lead the Eucharistic celebrations whereby we are all feed in Christ. I have also been blessed by being a part of some wonderful parishes and I continue to be blessed both at Annunziata and at Ste Genevieve du Bois. As you pray for our newly ordained, I would ask that you also pray for the priests that have served here and for all priests throughout the world that we may continue in our ministry to bring the face of Christ to those we meet.
Let us pray that young men may consider a call to the priesthood, as our Church needs more priests to minister to its people. Right now, there are less than 180 diocesan priests actively serving in the archdiocese. As you can see while we have been blessed with a number of vocations the number of retiring priests (this year 10) still outnumbers those entering the priesthood. The archbishop told me that our seminary Kenrick-Glennon is alive with new vocations, which is very encouraging, but as we know both at Annunziata and at Ste Genevieve du Bois more are still needed to answer the call. Perhaps a young man in your family is waiting to hear a call to the priesthood? Thank you for all your present and past support to me and to all priests and seminarians, please continue your prayers for vocations, the Church and its priests.
Blessings!
Msgr. John Shamleffer
Please remember to return your donation for the ACA (Archdiocesan Annual Campaign) so far only about one-fourth of our parishioners have responded. This collection helps the neediest in our Archdiocese, if you have any questions about this collection please contact me.
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Posted on May 15, 2026 in: Pastor
Dear Parishioners:
Congratulations to all those who have or will graduate this spring. From Graduate Programs, College, High School & Grade School. A special word of thanks and gratitude for our eighth grade PSR class this year at Annunziata may the good Lord and the gift of his Holy Spirit guide and protect you as you progress through life.
A graduation marks a wonderful accomplishment, a passage of life, and a gateway to the rest of our lives. May the knowledge you have received, not be reserved just for yourself, but may it be a source of wisdom and guidance to all humankind.
Lastly, a special welcome home to all of our college students I pray that this past academic year was both a year of growth in understanding and of wisdom. May God bless you, guide and protect you this summer and as you proceed through life.
My prayer and wishes for all our graduates:
While graduating classes may come and go, O almighty God, only you know all the graduates by name and have been with them their every step. Gracious and loving God, let us celebrate the gift of these young men and women and also to give thanks for all the blessing you have showered upon them in their lives. The abilities to reason, to learn and to remember all demonstrate your creative genius and love for humankind. You have given to these graduates’ mental gifts and the physical health to achieve the goal they have reached and have blessed their efforts with success. The personal care you have shown these men and women in their parents, families, teachers and classmates is another blessing that makes them think of you with heartfelt appreciation. O God hear our prayer for these graduates watch over them guide them and protect them as they continue to grow and mature in your image. Amen.
Easter Blessings!
Msgr. John Shamleffer
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Posted on April 30, 2026 in: Pastor
Dear Parishioners:
One of the gifts of the Easter season is baptism. We are blessed to celebrate many Baptisms every year here at the Church of the Annunziata. The gift of new life is a great gift to our families and our entire parish community. It was wonderful at Easter to have so many families and their children with us at Mass. The sounds of life were joyful for all.
I especially want our Parents of Young Children to know how grateful we are that you and your family have joined us for Mass at Annunziata. It is our hope that your little ones will grow up to be vital members of our parish family. We are grateful for your faith example and leadership of your children as you begin this journey with us.
I and all of Annunziata realize that it’s not easy to get your whole family to Mass, and it can be even more difficult to keep all of your little ones still throughout, but your kids should know that this church is their home and we, the community, are all brothers and sisters. They should feel welcome and at home in this place of worship, in the house of God.
We invite you to sing, pray, teach, respond, and explain what is going on at Mass with your children. Our liturgy is full of life, and our little ones learn how to worship through you and your participation. Children learn by example and your dedication to coming to Mass and attentiveness to it will be their best lesson.
The presence of children in Mass is a gift to our church and a sign that we are growing! We rejoice that our children are with us, and that our parish welcomes new life! Please remember to keep encouraging our young families, offer your help if they need it, and support them as best you can!
Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14)
Congratulations also to our second-grade class as they received the gift of the Holy Eucharist for the first time last week; blessings on all as you live out the gift of Jesus within you!
Easter Blessings!
Msgr John Shamleffer
Let us continue to pray for peace in our world and for all who suffer through war!
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Posted on April 27, 2026 in: Pastor
Dear Parishioners:
Our Easter season is celebrated for seven weeks as we break open the word of the Lord and reflect on his presence in our lives. During the Easter season we celebrate the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and First Eucharist. Let us please pray for our young men and women as they prepare to receive these life-giving sacraments here at The Church of the Annunziata.
Secondly, as our school year is nearing the end I would like to thank all those who make our P.S.R. classes such an important part of our parish life. I would especially like to thank our teachers, our volunteers, our parents and our coordinator Mrs. Carolyn Hall. The gift of our children revitalizes our parish and the faith of our children is a source of joy to our parish community.
Finally, our second-grade class will receive the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist for the first time next Saturday May 2nd let us pray for these young men and women as they prepare of this Sacrament. Also, many marriages take place here at Annunziata during Easter time, let us all also pray for these couples as they prepare to share their lives together in the Sacrament of Marriage. Lastly, but very importantly on Saturday May 23, 2026, Archbishop Rozanski will ordain Michael Lagemann, to be of service to the people of God. Finally, during this joyful season of Easter let us pray for our Pope Leo that he be guided and strengthened by the workings of the Holy Spirit. As you can see, we are truly a richly blessed Church.
Easter Blessings!
Msgr. John Shamleffer
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Posted on April 09, 2026 in: Pastor
Dear Parishioners:
Blessed Easter and many thanks to all who helped prepare, participate and attend our Holy Week services. The altar society, the clergy and all of our various ministers helped to enhance these beautiful liturgies. Many thanks for their countless hours and gifts that they give to our community. The Easter decorations are beautiful; our music ministers, ministers, Deacon Tom, and Msgr Leykem brought joy to our celebrations. I especially want to thank our faith-filled parishioners who through word and action bring Christ to so many. If you have not had the opportunity to attend Holy Week services in the past years, please consider attending next year as a gift to yourself. Next year Easter is March 28, 2027.
Our Easter season is celebrated for seven weeks as we break open the word of the Lord and reflect on his presence in our lives. During the Easter season we celebrate the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and First Eucharist. Let us please pray for our young men and women as they prepare to receive these life-giving sacraments here at the Church of the Annunziata.
Our here at Annunziata and our second-grade class will receive the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist for the first time on Saturday May 2nd, let us pray for these young men and women as they prepare of their first communion. Also, many marriages take place here at the Church of the Annunziata during Easter time, let us all also pray for these couples as they prepare to share their lives together in the Sacrament of Marriage. Lastly, but very importantly on Saturday May 23, 2026, Archbishop Rozanski will ordain one man to the priesthood, to be of service to the people of God. Finally during this joyful season of Easter let us pray for our Pope Leo that he be guided and strengthened by the workings of the Holy Spirit and Archbishop Mitchell Rozanski as he guides our Archdiocese. As you can see, we are truly a richly blessed Church.
Easter Blessings!
Msgr. John Shamleffer
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Posted on March 18, 2026 in: Pastor
Dear Parishioners:
Today begins the holiest of weeks within our church year. From the triumphal entrance with palms to the gift of Christ in the Eucharist; to His passion and dying on the cross; to the glory of his resurrection; we remember, we celebrate, we believe. I invite all to partake in these sacred days of Palm Sunday, Holy Thursday 7pm, Good Friday 3pm, Easter Vigil 8pm and Easter Sunday 9 & 11 am. These days are an opportunity for us to fast, pray, and attune ourselves to Christ’s paschal mystery. We need these three days to slow us down, give us time to absorb the saving actions of Christ and their true meaning for us.
I would like to send a special invitation to all to attend our Easter Vigil at 8:00 PM (Held at Ste Genevieve du Bois )this coming Saturday April 4 when the church throughout the world gathers to welcome into our parish families our newest members: The Church has a rich tradition of welcoming and celebrating with our newest members: who are preparing to enter the Church this Easter. The Easter Vigil liturgy is the most glorious and uplifting celebration of the year; please consider attending and experiencing this celebration.
Lastly, let us pray for one another this week; let us pray for peace in our world (esp. in Holy Land, Ukraine, and Middle East, for our Pope Leo, for our Archbishop Mitchell Rozanski, for our Archdiocese, for all those separated from our church, and for all of us; that we might live out the Easter promise. Then we can sing with the saints.
Hail thee, festival day!
Blest day to be hallowed forever;
Day when our Lord was raised,
Breaking the kingdom of death.
Have a Blessed Holy Week!
Msgr. John Shamleffer
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