Latest Message from the Administrator’s Desk: Fr. Ton Nguyen – September 13, 2026
QUESTIONS?
There are no bad questions when we genuinely want to learn, right? Over the past few weeks, many of you have stopped me after Mass, or around the parish with questions. So, I thought I would answer a few of them here!
Father, what will we have at the Taste of St. Guerin on September 12? Well… come and see! For certain, I know the team has “volunteered” me to help with the Vietnamese booth, so expect some egg rolls and fried rice. Bring your family, friends, neighbors – and your appetite!
What does “Administrator” mean? Will you eventually be our pastor? Think of it as pastor-in-training. For a priest becoming a pastor for the first time, serving as administrator provides an opportunity to learn while already carrying out the responsibilities of pastoral leadership. I also attend workshops and formation to help me shepherd well the people entrusted to my care.
Why do Catholics go to Confession? Because Jesus came to forgive sins and entrusted His Apostles with the ministry of reconciliation. In Confession, we acknowledge our sins, receive God’s forgiveness through the ministry of the priest, and experience His healing grace. Don’t let our sins weigh us down. Bring them to Confession, get them off your chest, and let God’s mercy lift you up.
Can God really forgive my sins? Absolutely! Look at this Sunday’s Gospel. A man with an enormous debt receives mercy beyond what he could ever repay. God’s mercy is even greater. The challenge is that, having received such mercy, we are called to extend it to others.
What if someone cannot come to church because of illness or limited mobility? Please call the parish office. Fr. Paul or I would be happy to arrange a visit for Confession, Holy Communion, or the Anointing of the Sick. Please don’t hesitate to let us know when someone needs us.
When is the feast day of St. Cyprian? September 16! St. Cyprian remains one of the patron saints of our parish community.
I bought a new house or car. Can I ask a priest to bless it? What if I have just moved to Elmwood Park or would like my home blessed? Yes! Call the parish office. Your priests are happy to come and pray with you and bless your home.
Where can I ask questions like these? At our upcoming Fireside Chats with the priests, at the Taste, after Mass, or whenever you see us. Ask away!
I want to become more involved in the parish. Where do I start? Complete our Stewardship of Talent form, speak with a staff member, or simply come to one of our many ministries and groups. Sometimes the best way to begin is simply to show up.
I know someone interested in becoming Catholic. What should I do? Wonderful! Please connect them with Ruthanne, our Director of Lifelong Formation. Even better, offer to walk with them. Sometimes the first step toward Christ begins because someone simply says, “Come with me.”
And if you have another question? Ask! Questions can open doors to conversations, conversations can deepen relationships, and relationships can lead us closer to Christ. I love being a priest.
JMJ,
Fr. Ton Nguyen
Administrator of St. Mother Theodore Guerin Parish