Happiness is Two Kinds of Ice Cream

Last night, our family attended the preview dinner of You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown–this year’s high school musical, and I cannot urge you enough to support and enjoy our outstanding performing arts students. Schulz’s timeless characters and Clark Gesner’s music and lyrics are catchy and compelling. With so much turmoil in our world, our government, and even within our neighborhood–give yourself the gift of hope, optimism, joy, and laughs of this beautiful show. Purchase tickets at: stmonica.net/peanuts.

Leland went with us. He was excited to see and support Abigail and Bridgette (fellow schoolmates and babysitters)—and their parents were seated with us. He was thrilled to visit with his classmate, Adonay, whose parents catered the meal—quite tasty! I was excited to congratulate the pit—under the baton of our very own Arielle Phan. Students served us, the décor and tablescapes were handcrafted, and there was plenty of wine. As the finale song “Happiness” began, I got a lump in my throat. The evening was like going over to a friend’s home: good music, good food, and good company.

There are few places left where we can feel at home. Msgr. Torgerson has made it his mission to ensure St. Monica is a place where all are not only welcome but where we all belong. In two weeks, our welcome litany will voice and name so many who–at best, feel unheard or unnoticed and at worst, feel unworthy–and whom we embrace. Let us all greet everyone with open hearts, open minds, and open arms–the way we would want to be invited in.

Easter is near and may the Lord’s resurrection remind us of all the goodness in our lives for which we lift in gratitude. It is a season of hope and renewal, so we humbly ask that you support the constant renewal of this parish community. Your impact reaches near and far from those just outside our door to those halfway around the globe in Ukraine and Kenya. May we hold fast to the joys and graces of life, love each other deeply, and always seek the good.