October 1, 2021

Dear Brothers and sisters,

I am happy to announce that Saint John the Baptist Parish, Harrison, will be a Family of One Parish, meaning that we are not joined with any other parish. The reason for this is that we are in one of the few areas of the diocese in which great growth has been and will continue to grow as development of subdivisions occur. The demographics indicate that this growth will be sustained at least for the near future, putting us in the category of a parish that (in our geographic context, i.e., in relationship to the particular parishes around us) would make it unwise to be joined to those parishes.

Secondly, we have shown that we are very viable parish, able to thrive as a parish.

This being said, we cannot rest on our laurels or rely on the automatic growth of this parish simply because more people are moving into the area. The purpose of the Beacons of Light is not primarily to join parishes, but to make every parish a stronger, more brilliant light in the world radiating Christ to others. Such work does not occur simply by having a nice church, excellent pastor (at least in his opinion), great staff or great organizations. It shines brightly when every member realizes that they are entrusted with the mission to life their faith fully and for the sake of others.

I want to remind you that this is a provisional decision, and the final decision will come after comments and suggestions by the laity are considered. Everyone is invited to respond to the Beacons of Light plan by going to CatholicAOC.org/beacons-of-light and giving your comments by OCTOBER 20th. In case you do not have computer access, you can call Jessica at 513-367-9086 x 217 and ask for a hard copy of the information to be sent to you. You may write your comments and return them to her (with your name & address) via the US mail, in the collection basket, or by dropping it off in the parish office mailbox (509 Harrison Avenue).

May we meet the challenge of becoming a more radiatin