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July 7, 2023“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened,
and I will give you rest.”
This Scripture from Matthew 11 has always been one of my favorites. I am not in any way currently burdened, but I have been laboring a bit. Moving into a new parish, learning how things are done, why they are done that way; and meeting new people every day has kept me well-occupied. I always enjoy conversations with people who know the institutional history of the parish, as that information is very valuable to a new pastor!
I had been warned that last weekend, plus the Fourth of July holiday, could bring some difficulties to Tybee Island. I was very happy at how smoothly these days went. A special thank you to our police officers and all of those who labored in the heat to keep us all safe and our Island peaceful. I pray that they will get some well-deserved rest!
People often say things to their pastor such as: “Father, I know you’re busy, but…” I habitually try to keep that word B-U-S-Y out of my vocabulary. I like to joke that the acronym stands for “Bound under Satan’s yoke.” When people begin their request with that line, I reply: “It is true that I am very well-occupied doing my job, which is to take care of God’s beloved children in this parish. And you are one of those beloved children. So, what can I do for you today?”
How am I doing? I am doing great! I pray for all of us to attain and maintain the three “H’s”: to be Healthy and Happy and Holy. I live at the beach, and I am pastor of a wonderful parish. I love being a priest and I am so happy to be your priest!
“Jesus is the answer to which every human heart is the question.” (St. John Paul II).
Come to me all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy and my burden light.
Praised be Jesus Christ.
Now and forever.
Fr. Brett Brannen
Pastor
