Dear Friend of St. Jude,          

     I keep telling myself that Easter should be a joyful, happy time.          

     Like you, my heart has been torn apart by the devastation in Haiti.
I watched in horror as orphaned children raised up their hands towards the sky, waving to God, saying: “Come and take us, too! Please!”          

     But, as sad and heart wrenching as these last few days and weeks have been for Haiti, there is hope.  Yes, there really is hope!

     Thanks to you and your continued support, St. Jude Shrine has been bringing hope to the poorest of God’s people in over 40 countries around the world!  From Africa to India, Argentina to Brazil and the United States — and soon, as far as Taiwan — Pallottine missionaries deliver hope that you make possible each and every day.

     You and I are now being called upon to ease the pain and suffering of the people of Haiti.  They desperately need our prayers.  Together, we can make hope come alive for them and be more than just words!  What a meaningful way to welcome the Risen Christ on Easter. 

                  “I come to make everything new again!”     

      When I hear those words from Jesus, my heavy heart feels a bit lighter.  The sad news from Haiti and from other places turns hopeful.  Just as Christ died on the Cross and rose again, life will renew itself no matter how bad it might seem.

 

      I believe that is one of the reasons why you continue to support the Shrine and the work of my fellow Pallottine priests and brothers.  You know that every dollar you share will be used wisely so that God’s message of hope will reach those who are desperate to hear it.  Even a few dollars can make a huge difference!  

      While you and I are focused on helping the people of Haiti, we must also remember the many poor people who continue to suffer in other parts of the world.  Places like Africa and India, where innocent lives are taken on a whim and where children are sold into slavery.  We must not forget to reach out and rescue them!

 

      Even here at home, elderly people are sometimes left for days — alone, frightened, and unable to care for themselves.  They long to receive the Eucharist and share the company of another human being.  You and I cannot forget them! 

      St. Jude Shrine will be there!  And, with your help, our Shrine will continue bringing hope to those desperate for a better life — whether it is clean water to drink, food to eat, an education, or sharing an uplifting moment of prayer.     

     Wherever there is a Pallottine brother or priest serving someone in need, you are also there, bringing hope!

 

     His hand is your hand, reaching out to lift up the poorest of God’s people.  Every act of kindness and compassion by a Pallottine brother or priest is accomplished entirely because of you and your generosity!     

     This is the real meaning of hope and I pray it is your wish as well.  That is why I come to you again today, begging on behalf of those desperate to receive your hand of hope.  Help me extend the healing light of God’s hope.      

     Help me make them new again.   

                                       Wishing you all the Glory of Easter

                                        and Hope of St. Jude,                                

                                        Father Peter Sticco, S.A.C.
                                        Novena Director

                                                                               
P.S. ‑If you have family or friends in Haiti, I want to be sure you know that  special prayers are being offered here in our Shrine.  That’s in addition to our ongoing novenas and mass on the tomb of St. Jude.  Let them know hope is on the way!  

Send me your prayers as well, and accept the small token of appreciation enclosed with my letter today. Easter can be a joyful, happy time for all who have faith. Believe!