From Father Tim's Desk
Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future. Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand. Proverbs 19: 20-21
Special Announcement
By Fr. Mike Muhr
Dear Sisters and brothers:
I am delighted to introduce our new parish manager, Elizabeth “Liz” Santor, who began serving this past Monday, October 20. I’ve expanded her position from “office manager” to “parish manager” to better reflect the scope of her role. As I serve two ministries — as pastor of our wonderful parish and director of ministry to priests in the diocese — it’s essential that I have someone to help coordinate all the details of our parish life together. Below is Liz’s greeting letter.
It is with great gratitude and enthusiasm that I join the faith community of St. Brendan’s Catholic Church as your new Parish Manager. I bring several years of experience in administrative, customer service, and operational leadership, along with a deep commitment to service, and faith.
Originally from Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania, I was a lifelong member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church. I now reside in Clearwater with my husband, Zachary, and our cat, Zoey. I am also an active member and cantor at Light of Christ Church.
I am truly honored to serve this vibrant parish community and look forward to working closely with our pastor, staff, and ministries to ensure that the daily operations of the parish are conducted with excellence, collaboration, and integrity. I look forward to getting to know each of you as we continue to grow together in faith.
Have a Great Day!
Liz Santor
By Fr. Mike Muhr
Dear Sisters and brothers:
I am delighted to introduce our new parish manager, Elizabeth “Liz” Santor, who began serving this past Monday, October 20. I’ve expanded her position from “office manager” to “parish manager” to better reflect the scope of her role. As I serve two ministries — as pastor of our wonderful parish and director of ministry to priests in the diocese — it’s essential that I have someone to help coordinate all the details of our parish life together. Below is Liz’s greeting letter.
It is with great gratitude and enthusiasm that I join the faith community of St. Brendan’s Catholic Church as your new Parish Manager. I bring several years of experience in administrative, customer service, and operational leadership, along with a deep commitment to service, and faith.
Originally from Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania, I was a lifelong member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church. I now reside in Clearwater with my husband, Zachary, and our cat, Zoey. I am also an active member and cantor at Light of Christ Church.
I am truly honored to serve this vibrant parish community and look forward to working closely with our pastor, staff, and ministries to ensure that the daily operations of the parish are conducted with excellence, collaboration, and integrity. I look forward to getting to know each of you as we continue to grow together in faith.
Have a Great Day!
Liz Santor
October 19, 2025
Dear Sisters and brothers:
In the north, October usually brings cooler tempera- tures and symphonies of color in branches above. Here in Florida, we look forward as well to that first cool front that will deliver us from the 90’s and its drenching humidity. It’s also a month in honor of the Rosary, that wonderful contemplative prayer with Mary, who is such a model of listening and trust in God. As she did at Cana, she always leads us to Jesus: “Do whatever he tells you.” (John 2:5) If you have not already discovered the blessings of the Rosary, I pray that this month may be a time when you allow her to teach you this beautiful prayer.
I was not particularly close to Mary growing up, but as I look back now she came close to me; she taught me how to pray. It’s hard to put this into words, for in the beginning I felt frustrated and left out as I saw others whose devotion to her seemed easy. The repetition of Our Fathers and Hail Marys seemed fruitless. At the same time, I felt the urge to keep praying. It’s only now when I reflect back upon how my feelings for her as mother and guide have grown that I realize how much God has touched my heart. I disclose this knowing that many of you have similar experiences and I hope these reflections assist you in your own prayer journey with her to God. As we celebrate this month the gift of Life in all its stages, may Mary be for each of us an example of love, faith and true discipleship!
God bless! Father Mike Muhr
Dear Sisters and brothers:
In the north, October usually brings cooler tempera- tures and symphonies of color in branches above. Here in Florida, we look forward as well to that first cool front that will deliver us from the 90’s and its drenching humidity. It’s also a month in honor of the Rosary, that wonderful contemplative prayer with Mary, who is such a model of listening and trust in God. As she did at Cana, she always leads us to Jesus: “Do whatever he tells you.” (John 2:5) If you have not already discovered the blessings of the Rosary, I pray that this month may be a time when you allow her to teach you this beautiful prayer.
I was not particularly close to Mary growing up, but as I look back now she came close to me; she taught me how to pray. It’s hard to put this into words, for in the beginning I felt frustrated and left out as I saw others whose devotion to her seemed easy. The repetition of Our Fathers and Hail Marys seemed fruitless. At the same time, I felt the urge to keep praying. It’s only now when I reflect back upon how my feelings for her as mother and guide have grown that I realize how much God has touched my heart. I disclose this knowing that many of you have similar experiences and I hope these reflections assist you in your own prayer journey with her to God. As we celebrate this month the gift of Life in all its stages, may Mary be for each of us an example of love, faith and true discipleship!
God bless! Father Mike Muhr
Made Whole Again
By Fr. Mike Muhr
I want to share this story I read some time ago. In 1981, Peter Cropper a famous British violinist was scheduled to give a concert in Finland. As a favor, the Academy of Music in London offered him their 285-year-old Stradivarius for the trip. This violin was named after its creator Antonio Stradivari. It was made of 80 pieces of specially selected wood carefully constructed and then covered with 30 coats of varnish. The sound of its music has never been reproduced. Finally, the time for the concert came, and as Peter began to walk onto the stage his worst nightmare occurred. He tripped and fell. The violin broke apart into several pieces. Peter was horrified. Can you imagine how he felt? I have dreams like this. I dream I go to someone's house; I go to open the curtains and they fall off-the-wall…, but can you imagine breaking this priceless musical instrument? Well, Peter still in shock took the broken pieces back to London. He brought them to Charles Beare a master artisan who worked for hours and hours trying to reconstruct the broken violin. When he finally completed his repairs, he handed the instrument to Peter who raised the bow and began to play. Everyone wondered if it was ruined, but the violin played beautifully! In fact, people said it sounded even better than before. Talk about getting back on the horse - Peter then took that violin ontour to standing ovations around the world.*
Just as Charles Beare brought that Stradivarius back to life, Jesus the craftsman and healer of our souls with great patience and love brings wholeness to each of us. I have had the privilege to be part of the retreat team for a Rachel’s Vineyard weekend, a time where women and men receive the Lord’s healing and forgiveness for painful post-abortive emotions and experience renewed hope, reconciliation and well-being.
If you or someone you know has experienced the pain of abortion, please let them know there is help available. Our diocesan number for Project Rachel post-abortive healing is (813) 924-4173. All calls are confidential. If you want to read more about Rachel’s Vineyard retreats, please go to their website at www.rachelsvineyard.org.
I pray that each of you may receive his mercy and healing in abundance!
God bless!
Fr. Mike Muhr
By Fr. Mike Muhr
I want to share this story I read some time ago. In 1981, Peter Cropper a famous British violinist was scheduled to give a concert in Finland. As a favor, the Academy of Music in London offered him their 285-year-old Stradivarius for the trip. This violin was named after its creator Antonio Stradivari. It was made of 80 pieces of specially selected wood carefully constructed and then covered with 30 coats of varnish. The sound of its music has never been reproduced. Finally, the time for the concert came, and as Peter began to walk onto the stage his worst nightmare occurred. He tripped and fell. The violin broke apart into several pieces. Peter was horrified. Can you imagine how he felt? I have dreams like this. I dream I go to someone's house; I go to open the curtains and they fall off-the-wall…, but can you imagine breaking this priceless musical instrument? Well, Peter still in shock took the broken pieces back to London. He brought them to Charles Beare a master artisan who worked for hours and hours trying to reconstruct the broken violin. When he finally completed his repairs, he handed the instrument to Peter who raised the bow and began to play. Everyone wondered if it was ruined, but the violin played beautifully! In fact, people said it sounded even better than before. Talk about getting back on the horse - Peter then took that violin ontour to standing ovations around the world.*
Just as Charles Beare brought that Stradivarius back to life, Jesus the craftsman and healer of our souls with great patience and love brings wholeness to each of us. I have had the privilege to be part of the retreat team for a Rachel’s Vineyard weekend, a time where women and men receive the Lord’s healing and forgiveness for painful post-abortive emotions and experience renewed hope, reconciliation and well-being.
If you or someone you know has experienced the pain of abortion, please let them know there is help available. Our diocesan number for Project Rachel post-abortive healing is (813) 924-4173. All calls are confidential. If you want to read more about Rachel’s Vineyard retreats, please go to their website at www.rachelsvineyard.org.
I pray that each of you may receive his mercy and healing in abundance!
God bless!
Fr. Mike Muhr
September 28, 2025
Keep Working on Love
I am so grateful that Bishop Lynch and Fr. Gigliotti, TOR, were able to cover for me last weekend so that I could travel to Washington, DC, for a wedding celebration. Over a year ago, a young woman asked me if I would preside at her wedding at St. Gabriel’s Church in the District of Columbia. I offered her parent’s nuptial Mass over 31 years ago, celebrated her baptism as an infant and was thrilled to watch her grow and mature over the past 29 years. Whenever I give a homily at a wedding, I let everyone know that I am not qualified to offer personal advice which always elicits a chuckle. I tell them my role is to be a mirror for the wisdom of other couples who have lived long- lasting, loving marriages.
Last weekend, I shared these three points. See, what you think.
1. Love handles the curveballs. I do not know if I have ever met a couple who told me that everything in their lives went exactly as they thought it would go on the day they were married. Couples with long, loving relationships know how to treat the twists and turns in life with an attitude that views change as the “new normal” or even an adventure. They learn how to let go of the entitlement about the way things are supposed to go
2. Love listens and forgives. I remember a man at a wedding reception who said that he would not be married today if he had not learned how to communicate his thoughts and his feelings. He credited his wife with teach- ing him how to share what was important. Love also forgives. Once at a rehearsal dinner, a woman told me that she would advise a new couple that there will be times when they need to be able to say and mean from their hearts, “I’m sorry,” and their spouse needs to be able to say and mean from their heart, “I forgive you.” She said, “We were not able to do this in my marriage, or we would still be married today.”
3. The last point I shared was a quote from Mother Teresa which she often shared with her sisters when they asked for advice. She told them, “Keep working on love.” Couples with satisfying long relationships learn how to take an interest in what their spouse loves even if it is not something they share together, and they continue to find ways to foster intimacy.
“Even at 50 years, these relationships are not static; they’re not pictures in a frame,” says Pepper Schwartz, a sociologist special- izing in marriage. “They’re alive and organic and fulfilling at every stage. That’s the exciting part of living.” Katie and Tu’s wedding was beautiful and the atmosphere among their family and friends was delightfully joyous. These celebrations make me glad I became a priest, supporting new couples who are helping each other get to heaven!
Keep Working on Love
I am so grateful that Bishop Lynch and Fr. Gigliotti, TOR, were able to cover for me last weekend so that I could travel to Washington, DC, for a wedding celebration. Over a year ago, a young woman asked me if I would preside at her wedding at St. Gabriel’s Church in the District of Columbia. I offered her parent’s nuptial Mass over 31 years ago, celebrated her baptism as an infant and was thrilled to watch her grow and mature over the past 29 years. Whenever I give a homily at a wedding, I let everyone know that I am not qualified to offer personal advice which always elicits a chuckle. I tell them my role is to be a mirror for the wisdom of other couples who have lived long- lasting, loving marriages.
Last weekend, I shared these three points. See, what you think.
1. Love handles the curveballs. I do not know if I have ever met a couple who told me that everything in their lives went exactly as they thought it would go on the day they were married. Couples with long, loving relationships know how to treat the twists and turns in life with an attitude that views change as the “new normal” or even an adventure. They learn how to let go of the entitlement about the way things are supposed to go
2. Love listens and forgives. I remember a man at a wedding reception who said that he would not be married today if he had not learned how to communicate his thoughts and his feelings. He credited his wife with teach- ing him how to share what was important. Love also forgives. Once at a rehearsal dinner, a woman told me that she would advise a new couple that there will be times when they need to be able to say and mean from their hearts, “I’m sorry,” and their spouse needs to be able to say and mean from their heart, “I forgive you.” She said, “We were not able to do this in my marriage, or we would still be married today.”
3. The last point I shared was a quote from Mother Teresa which she often shared with her sisters when they asked for advice. She told them, “Keep working on love.” Couples with satisfying long relationships learn how to take an interest in what their spouse loves even if it is not something they share together, and they continue to find ways to foster intimacy.
“Even at 50 years, these relationships are not static; they’re not pictures in a frame,” says Pepper Schwartz, a sociologist special- izing in marriage. “They’re alive and organic and fulfilling at every stage. That’s the exciting part of living.” Katie and Tu’s wedding was beautiful and the atmosphere among their family and friends was delightfully joyous. These celebrations make me glad I became a priest, supporting new couples who are helping each other get to heaven!
September 21, 2025
Make Me an Instrument of Your Peace
I want to share a few words on the killing of Charlie Kirk which is still very much on everyone's heart. Many people have shared with me their strong emotions of sadness, anger and desire for retribution. These feelings are natural, but to act on them is not who we are as Catholic followers of Jesus. We are a people of compassion helping others continue on with strength and courage in the love of Christ.
In a prophetic plea Utah Governor Spencer Cox urged Americans to “choose a different path.” He also spoke strong words about social media as “a cancer on our society right now.” He said, “I would encourage people to log off, turn off, touch grass, hug a family member, go out and do good in your community.”
I believe this is also an opportunity for us to take another look at the prayer of St Francis which begins with the words, “Make me an instrument of your peace.” This inspiring prayer embraces powerful commitments. I plan to pray with a line each day over the next two weeks, and invite you to do the same. May the Lord light our way towards unity and help us be the peace we want by the way we think, talk, and act.
Prayer of St. Francis
Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace;
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is error, truth;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
And where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, Grant that I may not so much seek
To be consoled as to console;
To be understood as to understand;
To be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive;
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Make Me an Instrument of Your Peace
I want to share a few words on the killing of Charlie Kirk which is still very much on everyone's heart. Many people have shared with me their strong emotions of sadness, anger and desire for retribution. These feelings are natural, but to act on them is not who we are as Catholic followers of Jesus. We are a people of compassion helping others continue on with strength and courage in the love of Christ.
In a prophetic plea Utah Governor Spencer Cox urged Americans to “choose a different path.” He also spoke strong words about social media as “a cancer on our society right now.” He said, “I would encourage people to log off, turn off, touch grass, hug a family member, go out and do good in your community.”
I believe this is also an opportunity for us to take another look at the prayer of St Francis which begins with the words, “Make me an instrument of your peace.” This inspiring prayer embraces powerful commitments. I plan to pray with a line each day over the next two weeks, and invite you to do the same. May the Lord light our way towards unity and help us be the peace we want by the way we think, talk, and act.
Prayer of St. Francis
Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace;
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is error, truth;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
And where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, Grant that I may not so much seek
To be consoled as to console;
To be understood as to understand;
To be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive;
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
September 14, 2025
Making a Difference
Last Sunday, in St. Peter's Square, Pope Leo XIV canonized two modern- day saints: Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati.
Carlo Acutis was a young millennial computer programmer with a passion for the Eucharist. He dedicated himself to spreading his love for Jesus in many ways including developing a website that details Eucharistic miracles throughout the centuries. www.miracolieucaristici.org/en/liste/list.html
He aimed to inspire others, especially his peers, to discover a greater love for Jesus’ Real Presence in the Sacrifice of the Mass.
Pier Giorgio Frassati, born in 1901, was an avid out- doorsman and mountaineer known for his exceptional love for the poor. Pope John Paul II dubbed him the “Man of the Eight Beatitudes.” It was the poor of Turin who petitioned Rome to recognize his sanctity.
Both of these saints died young: Carlo at the age of 15 from leukemia and Pier at 24 from polio and yet their impact on the world was substantial. How many people dream to make a difference in the world as they did in their short lives. I have been to a lot of talks where young people are present and speakers often address them as the “future of the Church.” They are not the future of the Church - they are the Church NOW as we see in these two shining examples of faith and service.
Do a web search of their names to learn more about these extraordinary disciples of Jesus.
St. Carlo Acutis, pray for us!
St. Pier Giorgio Frassati, pray for us!
Making a Difference
Last Sunday, in St. Peter's Square, Pope Leo XIV canonized two modern- day saints: Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati.
Carlo Acutis was a young millennial computer programmer with a passion for the Eucharist. He dedicated himself to spreading his love for Jesus in many ways including developing a website that details Eucharistic miracles throughout the centuries. www.miracolieucaristici.org/en/liste/list.html
He aimed to inspire others, especially his peers, to discover a greater love for Jesus’ Real Presence in the Sacrifice of the Mass.
Pier Giorgio Frassati, born in 1901, was an avid out- doorsman and mountaineer known for his exceptional love for the poor. Pope John Paul II dubbed him the “Man of the Eight Beatitudes.” It was the poor of Turin who petitioned Rome to recognize his sanctity.
Both of these saints died young: Carlo at the age of 15 from leukemia and Pier at 24 from polio and yet their impact on the world was substantial. How many people dream to make a difference in the world as they did in their short lives. I have been to a lot of talks where young people are present and speakers often address them as the “future of the Church.” They are not the future of the Church - they are the Church NOW as we see in these two shining examples of faith and service.
Do a web search of their names to learn more about these extraordinary disciples of Jesus.
St. Carlo Acutis, pray for us!
St. Pier Giorgio Frassati, pray for us!
September 7, 2025
Beginning Eternal Life
The most important beginning in our lives comes through the sacrament of baptism. It is our birth into eternal life! Here is a picture of our stained glass window of St. Brendan being baptized by Bishop Erc in the area of Tralee, Ireland around 484. God had great plans for Brendan, and it all began with him receiving the life-giving grace of this wonderful sacrament.
In the gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, we hear of Jesus’ baptism as he makes holy the water for all of us who follow him. This amazing epiphany marks the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. Before all the people, Jesus is blessed by the Father as all hear his voice from the heavens, “This is my beloved son, with whom I am well pleased.“ Matthew 3:17.
Take some time to reflect on your baptism. What do you know about it? Do you have any pictures? What are the desires of Jesus for you that flow from your baptism? What are his dreams for you? How is he calling you to serve him in our parish and the world today?
The following is my favorite part of the baptismal ritual for children. There is such great joy and mission in these words. As you read them, place your name in the spot that says “this child of yours” and let God speak to your heart!
“Parents and Godparents, this light is entrusted to you to be kept burning brightly. This child of yours has been enlightened by Christ. He (she) is to walk always as a child of the light. May he (she) keep the flame of faith alive in his (her) heart. When the Lord comes, may he (she) go out to meet him with all the saints in the heavenly kingdom.”
Beginning Eternal Life
The most important beginning in our lives comes through the sacrament of baptism. It is our birth into eternal life! Here is a picture of our stained glass window of St. Brendan being baptized by Bishop Erc in the area of Tralee, Ireland around 484. God had great plans for Brendan, and it all began with him receiving the life-giving grace of this wonderful sacrament.
In the gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, we hear of Jesus’ baptism as he makes holy the water for all of us who follow him. This amazing epiphany marks the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. Before all the people, Jesus is blessed by the Father as all hear his voice from the heavens, “This is my beloved son, with whom I am well pleased.“ Matthew 3:17.
Take some time to reflect on your baptism. What do you know about it? Do you have any pictures? What are the desires of Jesus for you that flow from your baptism? What are his dreams for you? How is he calling you to serve him in our parish and the world today?
The following is my favorite part of the baptismal ritual for children. There is such great joy and mission in these words. As you read them, place your name in the spot that says “this child of yours” and let God speak to your heart!
“Parents and Godparents, this light is entrusted to you to be kept burning brightly. This child of yours has been enlightened by Christ. He (she) is to walk always as a child of the light. May he (she) keep the flame of faith alive in his (her) heart. When the Lord comes, may he (she) go out to meet him with all the saints in the heavenly kingdom.”
August 31, 2025
Thank You
You may have seen last week in the bulletin that our office manager Steve Curtis will be retiring on August 31. He and his wife Mary will continue to be living and serving at St. Brendan’s, but they’re looking forward to some adventures into nature of which they’re very fond of taking.
I’m so grateful for Steve’s big-hearted presence and the way he stepped in when Fr. Tim was having trouble finding someone to assist in the manager’s role. Steve has been so kind and helpful to me these past two months. His spirit of hospitality is representative of this parish community as a whole.
We have so many visitors who come to this spectacular part of the world for rest and vacation. It makes me think of all the churches I have visited on my vacations through the years. The parishes that stand out in my memory are not only those that are in beautiful settings with inspiring sanctuaries, but most importantly the spirit of welcome I remember.
Each weekend, people come up to me after Mass telling me where they’re from. Many of them say that they are repeat visitors who look forward to visiting our parish every year. Thank you all for making St. Brendan‘s a home away from home for so many.
It is the spirit of hospitality that Jesus grew up in and extended especially to those whom society overlooks or pushes to the side. I’m thinking of his encounter with Zacchaeus in the tree. Jesus’ desire to experience his hospitality profoundly changed this tax collector’s life. We never know how even small acts of kindness and welcome can impact another person’s life.
Steve, once again, thank you for your service and may God bless you in all your future trailblazing!
Thank You
You may have seen last week in the bulletin that our office manager Steve Curtis will be retiring on August 31. He and his wife Mary will continue to be living and serving at St. Brendan’s, but they’re looking forward to some adventures into nature of which they’re very fond of taking.
I’m so grateful for Steve’s big-hearted presence and the way he stepped in when Fr. Tim was having trouble finding someone to assist in the manager’s role. Steve has been so kind and helpful to me these past two months. His spirit of hospitality is representative of this parish community as a whole.
We have so many visitors who come to this spectacular part of the world for rest and vacation. It makes me think of all the churches I have visited on my vacations through the years. The parishes that stand out in my memory are not only those that are in beautiful settings with inspiring sanctuaries, but most importantly the spirit of welcome I remember.
Each weekend, people come up to me after Mass telling me where they’re from. Many of them say that they are repeat visitors who look forward to visiting our parish every year. Thank you all for making St. Brendan‘s a home away from home for so many.
It is the spirit of hospitality that Jesus grew up in and extended especially to those whom society overlooks or pushes to the side. I’m thinking of his encounter with Zacchaeus in the tree. Jesus’ desire to experience his hospitality profoundly changed this tax collector’s life. We never know how even small acts of kindness and welcome can impact another person’s life.
Steve, once again, thank you for your service and may God bless you in all your future trailblazing!
August 24, 2025
St. Brendan the Navigator
By Fr. Mike Muhr
I am intrigued by our patron, St. Brendan, also known as the Bold. Although there are many adventures described in The Voyage of Saint Brendan the Abbota medieval Latin text of his seven-year journey in search of the Isle of the Blessed, historical facts about his life are few. We believe he was born around the year 484 in County Kerry, Ireland. He lived the life of a monk founding several monasteries and schools in Ireland, France and Wales.
Over the next few months, I’d like to reflect with you upon the allegorical spiritual meaning of some of his adventures as pictured in the beautiful stained glass windows surrounding the nave of our church. I look forward to traveling with you! As we begin our voyage, offer with me this inspirational prayer that conveys so beautifully the spirit of his legacy.
Help me to journey beyond the familiar and into the unknown.
Give me the faith to leave old ways and break fresh ground with You.
Christ of the mysteries, I trust You to be stronger than each storm within me. I will trust in the darkness and know that my times,
even now, are in Your hand.
Tune my spirit to the music of heaven, and somehow,
make my obedience count for You.
— Attributed to St Brendan
St. Brendan the Navigator
By Fr. Mike Muhr
I am intrigued by our patron, St. Brendan, also known as the Bold. Although there are many adventures described in The Voyage of Saint Brendan the Abbota medieval Latin text of his seven-year journey in search of the Isle of the Blessed, historical facts about his life are few. We believe he was born around the year 484 in County Kerry, Ireland. He lived the life of a monk founding several monasteries and schools in Ireland, France and Wales.
Over the next few months, I’d like to reflect with you upon the allegorical spiritual meaning of some of his adventures as pictured in the beautiful stained glass windows surrounding the nave of our church. I look forward to traveling with you! As we begin our voyage, offer with me this inspirational prayer that conveys so beautifully the spirit of his legacy.
Help me to journey beyond the familiar and into the unknown.
Give me the faith to leave old ways and break fresh ground with You.
Christ of the mysteries, I trust You to be stronger than each storm within me. I will trust in the darkness and know that my times,
even now, are in Your hand.
Tune my spirit to the music of heaven, and somehow,
make my obedience count for You.
— Attributed to St Brendan
August 17, 2025
A House of Prayer
By Fr. Mike Muhr, Pastor
“My house shall be a house of prayer,
but you have made it a den of thieves”
Luke 19: 46
When I first heard this passage of Jesus driving out the money changers, I was shocked and disturbed. Now when I hear it, I’m focused on the passionate love that Jesus has for the sacredness of the Temple and how I need to remain intentional in my reverence and respect for God’s house.
Jesus’ words and actions in this scene cause me to reflect:
1. Do I prepare my heart to meet the Lord as I’m driving and then walking from the parking lot towards the church?
2. Am I aware of what I’d like to ask my loving God?
3. Do I say hello when I enter and take time to kneel in adoration?
4. Am I careful of respecting those in prayer by talking quietly if I need to say something.
5. At the end of Mass do I ask for the Father’s blessing as I enter “mission territory” anew?
How does this passage affect you?
Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us.
A House of Prayer
By Fr. Mike Muhr, Pastor
“My house shall be a house of prayer,
but you have made it a den of thieves”
Luke 19: 46
When I first heard this passage of Jesus driving out the money changers, I was shocked and disturbed. Now when I hear it, I’m focused on the passionate love that Jesus has for the sacredness of the Temple and how I need to remain intentional in my reverence and respect for God’s house.
Jesus’ words and actions in this scene cause me to reflect:
1. Do I prepare my heart to meet the Lord as I’m driving and then walking from the parking lot towards the church?
2. Am I aware of what I’d like to ask my loving God?
3. Do I say hello when I enter and take time to kneel in adoration?
4. Am I careful of respecting those in prayer by talking quietly if I need to say something.
5. At the end of Mass do I ask for the Father’s blessing as I enter “mission territory” anew?
How does this passage affect you?
Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us.
August 10, 2025
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
This weekend we are saying farewell to two special friends and wonderful priests who have served St. Brendan for many years.
As you may have heard already, Msgr. Michael Devine has elected to return to his homeland of Ireland. He’ll be leaving on Tuesday, August 12th.
You all know how much he loves our community of St. Brendan’s. He served as pastor from 2001 and remained in residence for many years afterwards. He has been residing for the last several months at St. John XXIII residence in Lutz, an assisted living facility where nine other priests reside.
We wish him a very fond farewell and will remember him in our hearts and prayers. We will be having a reception for him this Saturday after the 4:30pm Mass.
Also, this weekend we are saying goodbye to Fr. Tony Plathe who has generously served here the last five years. His friendliness, warmth, sincerity, and priestly devotion will be greatly missed. He’s moving into an independent living residence near his family in Minnesota.
Fr. Tony, please know that your presence here these past years has made a significant positive impact on the life of this parish family. Here’s hoping that like riding a bike, you can readjust easily to winter’s ways. All the best!!
We will be hosting a reception for Fr. Tony on Sunday after his 9:00am Mass and again after the 11:00am Mass.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Fr. Mike Muhr
Pastor
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
This weekend we are saying farewell to two special friends and wonderful priests who have served St. Brendan for many years.
As you may have heard already, Msgr. Michael Devine has elected to return to his homeland of Ireland. He’ll be leaving on Tuesday, August 12th.
You all know how much he loves our community of St. Brendan’s. He served as pastor from 2001 and remained in residence for many years afterwards. He has been residing for the last several months at St. John XXIII residence in Lutz, an assisted living facility where nine other priests reside.
We wish him a very fond farewell and will remember him in our hearts and prayers. We will be having a reception for him this Saturday after the 4:30pm Mass.
Also, this weekend we are saying goodbye to Fr. Tony Plathe who has generously served here the last five years. His friendliness, warmth, sincerity, and priestly devotion will be greatly missed. He’s moving into an independent living residence near his family in Minnesota.
Fr. Tony, please know that your presence here these past years has made a significant positive impact on the life of this parish family. Here’s hoping that like riding a bike, you can readjust easily to winter’s ways. All the best!!
We will be hosting a reception for Fr. Tony on Sunday after his 9:00am Mass and again after the 11:00am Mass.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Fr. Mike Muhr
Pastor
August 3, 2025
What Matters to God?
Before you read any further, think about how would you answer this question: What matters to God?
I recently asked a number of people this question and received wonderful answers.
Here are a few of them:
What matters to God?
“YOU!”
“Loving and serving one another for His great glory”
“Your heart and who you are right now.”
“Our union with Him through his Son.”
“Love of the Father through the people He has blessed us with.”
Obviously, God cares about many things and all of us. If we ask this question through the lens of the gospels what answers would that elicit. Jesus cared about doing the will of his Father, and as he read from Isaiah in his home synagogue: proclaiming good news to the poor …freedom for the prisoners …recovery of sight for the blind … setting
the oppressed free… and proclaiming the year of the Lord’s favor.
Let me highlight one area that is proclaimed throughout the Bible. There are over 2000 verses dedicated to poverty and caring for the poor.
God cares deeply for those who struggle the most in life. His heart aches for them and he calls us to be his hands to care for them. I once read something St. Vincent de Paul said that stays with me as a humbling, purifying call, “Since God surely loves the poor, he also loves those who love the poor. For when one person holds another dear, he also includes in his affection anyone who loves or serves the one he loves. That is why we hope that God will love us for the sake of the poor.”
I would encourage you to keep praying about what matters to God. Think about the different saints and how they might answer this question. I truly believe that meditating on this will lead you deeper in your love for God and God‘s unconditional love for you!
What Matters to God?
Before you read any further, think about how would you answer this question: What matters to God?
I recently asked a number of people this question and received wonderful answers.
Here are a few of them:
What matters to God?
“YOU!”
“Loving and serving one another for His great glory”
“Your heart and who you are right now.”
“Our union with Him through his Son.”
“Love of the Father through the people He has blessed us with.”
Obviously, God cares about many things and all of us. If we ask this question through the lens of the gospels what answers would that elicit. Jesus cared about doing the will of his Father, and as he read from Isaiah in his home synagogue: proclaiming good news to the poor …freedom for the prisoners …recovery of sight for the blind … setting
the oppressed free… and proclaiming the year of the Lord’s favor.
Let me highlight one area that is proclaimed throughout the Bible. There are over 2000 verses dedicated to poverty and caring for the poor.
God cares deeply for those who struggle the most in life. His heart aches for them and he calls us to be his hands to care for them. I once read something St. Vincent de Paul said that stays with me as a humbling, purifying call, “Since God surely loves the poor, he also loves those who love the poor. For when one person holds another dear, he also includes in his affection anyone who loves or serves the one he loves. That is why we hope that God will love us for the sake of the poor.”
I would encourage you to keep praying about what matters to God. Think about the different saints and how they might answer this question. I truly believe that meditating on this will lead you deeper in your love for God and God‘s unconditional love for you!
June 27, 2025
God’s Astonishing Mercy
So many saints have marveled at the mercy of God. They have been inspired to find words that might come close to describing their personal experiences of having been touched, healed, and enflamed
by this divine presence and gift.
Here are a couple of their attempts:
From the words of Jesus to St. Faustina, Diary, (1273)
There is no misery that could be a match for My mercy, neither will misery exhaust it, because as it is being granted—it increases. The soul that trusts in My mercy is most fortunate, because I myself take care of it.
St. Claude de la Colombiere
Men may deprive me of property and honor; sickness may take away my strength and other means of serving You; I may even lose Your grace by sin; but never, never will I lose my hope in You. I will cherish it unto that dreadful moment when all hell will be unchained to snatch my soul away. “No one has hoped in the Lord and has been confounded.”
One contemporary example is found in the Ravensbruck prayer scrawled on a piece of wrapping paper in the Ravensbruck Concentration Camp (the only major Nazi concentration camp for women). Some sources say it was found on the body or in the clothing of a dead child. What I often wonder is how did this person come to this startling place of mercy and forgiveness. Lord help me live in your heart, in your mercy.
Lord, remember not only the men and women of good will but all those of ill will. Do not only remember all the sufferings they have subjected us to. Remember the fruits we brought forth thanks to this suffering — Our comradeship, our loyalty, our humility, our courage and generosity, the greatness of heart that all of this inspired. And when they come to judgement, let all those fruits we have borne be their reward and their forgiveness. Amen.
God’s Astonishing Mercy
So many saints have marveled at the mercy of God. They have been inspired to find words that might come close to describing their personal experiences of having been touched, healed, and enflamed
by this divine presence and gift.
Here are a couple of their attempts:
From the words of Jesus to St. Faustina, Diary, (1273)
There is no misery that could be a match for My mercy, neither will misery exhaust it, because as it is being granted—it increases. The soul that trusts in My mercy is most fortunate, because I myself take care of it.
St. Claude de la Colombiere
Men may deprive me of property and honor; sickness may take away my strength and other means of serving You; I may even lose Your grace by sin; but never, never will I lose my hope in You. I will cherish it unto that dreadful moment when all hell will be unchained to snatch my soul away. “No one has hoped in the Lord and has been confounded.”
One contemporary example is found in the Ravensbruck prayer scrawled on a piece of wrapping paper in the Ravensbruck Concentration Camp (the only major Nazi concentration camp for women). Some sources say it was found on the body or in the clothing of a dead child. What I often wonder is how did this person come to this startling place of mercy and forgiveness. Lord help me live in your heart, in your mercy.
Lord, remember not only the men and women of good will but all those of ill will. Do not only remember all the sufferings they have subjected us to. Remember the fruits we brought forth thanks to this suffering — Our comradeship, our loyalty, our humility, our courage and generosity, the greatness of heart that all of this inspired. And when they come to judgement, let all those fruits we have borne be their reward and their forgiveness. Amen.
June 20, 2025
I’ll never forget the night I was out with some friends for dinner, and I wanted to pay since I organized the outing. The waiter however thought I was pointing to the people behind us when I asked for the check. The next thing I knew he was telling them that I was covering their dinner. Obviously, they were quite surprised as was I!
I can’t take any credit for being hospitable for that accident, but it makes me wonder. Have you ever received hospitality that wowed you? How did it make you feel? What if each of us reading this reflection pledged to offer some spectacular hospitality to someone never expecting it. What if we made it a way of life? We too might unknowingly be entertaining angels!
I’ll never forget the night I was out with some friends for dinner, and I wanted to pay since I organized the outing. The waiter however thought I was pointing to the people behind us when I asked for the check. The next thing I knew he was telling them that I was covering their dinner. Obviously, they were quite surprised as was I!
I can’t take any credit for being hospitable for that accident, but it makes me wonder. Have you ever received hospitality that wowed you? How did it make you feel? What if each of us reading this reflection pledged to offer some spectacular hospitality to someone never expecting it. What if we made it a way of life? We too might unknowingly be entertaining angels!
June 13, 2025
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
Thank you so much for making me feel so welcomed back! Special thanks to Ray and Jane Snyder and their team for the coffee and donuts after the Masses last Sunday. It was a great way for me to get a chance to say hello to so many who were able to stay for this great community building gathering.
Hospitality is an exceptional charism of St. Brendan’s parish. This struck me so deeply the last time I was here in 2019 as I witnessed the various ways our community welcomes our visitors each week and how we as a community reach out to others in need in our area.
Today, we reflect on one of Jesus’ most memorable parables, the story of the Good Samaritan. No matter how close we get to the Lord, this narrative is ever challenging. It continues to ask the question: “And who is my neighbor?”
I have been thinking and praying a lot about how Jesus would want us to apply this parable to the present immigration crisis we face today?
Let me share with you Bishop Parkes’ statement for your prayer and reflection.
“The Catholic Church is pro-life. This means we believe that each human life has dignity, regardless of immigration status.
Human dignity exists because each of us is created in the image and likeness of God.
We also affirm that sovereign nations have the right to control and restrict their borders, and law enforcement actions are needed to preserve order and ensure community security for the common good.
On all sides of the immigration issue, there is fear. We must ask God to give us hope. Let us pray that justice and mercy will prevail.
Our country has long been a refuge for families and individuals fleeing violence, persecution, and acute poverty.
May our leaders enforce the laws of our nation and show compassion for the good and hard-working immigrants who only seek to provide for their families and contribute to our great nation.
Let us pray for our country that we may always be a nation of freedom and peace, and that we may live without fear of violence, persecution, or discrimination. Let us come together to respect the human dignity of all life from conception to natural death.”
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
Thank you so much for making me feel so welcomed back! Special thanks to Ray and Jane Snyder and their team for the coffee and donuts after the Masses last Sunday. It was a great way for me to get a chance to say hello to so many who were able to stay for this great community building gathering.
Hospitality is an exceptional charism of St. Brendan’s parish. This struck me so deeply the last time I was here in 2019 as I witnessed the various ways our community welcomes our visitors each week and how we as a community reach out to others in need in our area.
Today, we reflect on one of Jesus’ most memorable parables, the story of the Good Samaritan. No matter how close we get to the Lord, this narrative is ever challenging. It continues to ask the question: “And who is my neighbor?”
I have been thinking and praying a lot about how Jesus would want us to apply this parable to the present immigration crisis we face today?
Let me share with you Bishop Parkes’ statement for your prayer and reflection.
“The Catholic Church is pro-life. This means we believe that each human life has dignity, regardless of immigration status.
Human dignity exists because each of us is created in the image and likeness of God.
We also affirm that sovereign nations have the right to control and restrict their borders, and law enforcement actions are needed to preserve order and ensure community security for the common good.
On all sides of the immigration issue, there is fear. We must ask God to give us hope. Let us pray that justice and mercy will prevail.
Our country has long been a refuge for families and individuals fleeing violence, persecution, and acute poverty.
May our leaders enforce the laws of our nation and show compassion for the good and hard-working immigrants who only seek to provide for their families and contribute to our great nation.
Let us pray for our country that we may always be a nation of freedom and peace, and that we may live without fear of violence, persecution, or discrimination. Let us come together to respect the human dignity of all life from conception to natural death.”