There are SO many wonderful memories I have at Padre Serra Parish... from receiving sacraments to connecting with others in learning/discussion groups, to meaningful and beautiful holiday celebrations, to serving alongside wonderful people in various ministries! Most recently, I celebrated my 40-year career in the defense industry with a mass, blessing, and fiesta at Padre Serra! The love and community in this parish are a deep source of joy and a call to service in my life!
My favorite memory is recent, the outdoor Mass held during Covid. When I was young, we would attend mass in the summer near Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Mass was held under the large pine trees on an Altar that I believe one of the parishioners made. We sat on fallen logs that were laid around the Alter. Just thinking about it fills my heart with joy. A beautiful setting provided by GOD. Having Mass on the Grass took me back to that wonderful time in my life, attending that beautiful outdoor Mass with my dad and siblings. Note: there was no physical church in that community, so outdoor Mass made it easier for those living there to attend Mass in town rather than driving down Highway 4 to attend church.
