Dear Parishioners and Friends,

When we hear the phrase, “making space,” or “creating space,” we usually are referring to the idea of inclusion or accommodation. We create space to accommodate recreation or time for prayer. We make space to include others.

John’s Gospel today is about “making space” for the power of the risen Lord in our lives. Peter and his companions returned to something they knew: professional fishing.  But it was a disappointing yield. However, after their encounter with Jesus who was standing on the shore of the Tiberius, they made space and accommodated his directive to cast the net differently, to try again but in a new way. And the result was abundant!

I enjoyed reflecting on this Sunday’s readings as we begin to feel the reality of St. Patrick and St. Malachi formally coming together.  It’s understandable if we just want to go back to what we know, back to the familiar, back to the security of the past. But our encounter today with the risen Lord requires that we create space for the many new and abundant opportunities awaiting us.  Maybe it is as simple as casting the net differently.

Last Sunday, of course, was a very significant day in our history as St. Malachi officially became part of St. Patrick Parish. In response to the recommendations offered by our working groups, which began in August 2024, we are forming joint Commissions to do the integrated work of the many exciting areas of combined parish life.

Now that we are one parish, blessed with many faithful parishioners who are already involved in a variety of roles of service, we are now looking for individuals to serve in leadership positions of the Commissions that will oversee all that we do here on Cleveland’s near west side.  Are YOU willing to help cast the net in new ways as we live an integrated parish life together?

Every group in our parish will be formally associated with a particular Commission. The chairpersons for each Commission will help lead the individual committees of volunteers. Some committees already exist, and others are being established.

All current Commissions and Councils will conclude on June 30 as our new joint Commissions and Councils go into effect on July 1.  It is my sincere hope that many of those who have been serving in these areas will continue their good work while creating space for new members and casting the net in new ways!

You can learn how to get involved via our parish bulletin or signing up for the weekly e-mail at stpatrickbridge.org. Be assured of my continued prayers for all of us during this important time in our history.

Easter blessings,

Fr. Gurnick