As we step into the heart of summer, we’re still beaming with gratitude from our 26th Annual RENEW Gala. What a joy it was to gather in celebration of faith, service, and the mission we share. We were honored to recognize extraordinary individuals whose lives reflect the values we hold dear. From heartfelt speeches to spirit-filled conversations, the evening was a true
testament to what happens when faithful people come together with purpose.
To everyone who had a hand in making the Gala a success, whether you joined us in person, sent a note, or supported us from afar, thank you. Your generosity fuels our mission and reminds us of the deep well of love and commitment that surrounds this ministry. You can watch the main program from the Gala HERE...or keep scrolling to view the photo gallery!
As we approach the Fourth of July, we pause to reflect not only on the gift of freedom but on the responsibility that comes with it. In a world shaken by violence, division, and unrest, we pray for lasting peace—in our hearts, in our homes, and in our hurting world. May we be courageous peacemakers, rooted in justice and guided by love.
In that same spirit of hope and action, we’re thrilled to introduce In the Light of Justice, our bold new faith-sharing series. Developed under the pastoral leadership of Meredith Augustin, Vice President of Pastoral Services, this series is grounded in Catholic Social Teaching and inspired by Rerum Novarum, the groundbreaking encyclical letter of Pope Leo XIII; the witness of Pope Francis; and the emerging voice of Pope Leo XIV. It’s more than a program. It’s an invitation to live the Gospel with courage and compassion. The first resource will be available soon, so stay tuned!
We move forward with gratitude and purpose, building communities rooted in faith and justice.
Wishing you a peaceful and purposeful Independence Day,
The RENEW Staff
Saint of the Month
Saint Ignatius of Loyola
Feast Day: July 31
Affectionately known by some of us as “Iggy,” St. Ignatius of Loyola was not always a saint, or even particularly saintly. Before he was the founder of the Jesuits and a spiritual giant, he was a swaggering soldier with a taste for drama, fashion, and swordplay. (Yes, you read that right.) But after a cannonball injury knocked him off his high horse—literally—Ignatius
encountered God in a profound way and began a lifelong journey of inner transformation.
His legacy? The Spiritual Exercises—a masterclass in discernment, self-awareness, and God’s deep desire for our freedom and joy. And yes, I said masterclass. I’ve been living with these exercises for the past year, and as someone who proudly claims a Jesuit university education, I can tell you: they are real, they are deep—and sometimes they read you before you even open the page.
So this month, raise a toast (coffee or cabernet—Ignatius would say “whatever helps you love and serve God more”) to the saint who reminds us that conversion is messy, holiness is gritty, and God often finds us exactly where we least expect.
IGNATIUS WISDOM (Unofficial, but True):
“It is not hard to find God—once you stop insisting he look like your plan.” —Meredith Augustin, Vice President of Pastoral Services
A Tip for Small Christian Communities to Thrive
Take it outside.
This month, consider meeting your small group in a new setting—a park bench, a parish garden, even someone’s backyard. A change of scenery can refresh your spirit and open hearts in surprising ways.
Bonus: If you're diving intoIn the Light of Justiceor Creation at the Crossroads, creation itself becomes a partner in your reflection. Jesus taught under the open sky. Maybe this summer, you can too.
"This was an experience of growing in faith. It was great to see how the Word we proclaim became the ‘seed’ that produced lots of fruit.
Some participants in my group showed interest in receiving the sacraments, including two couples that decided to celebrate the sacrament of matrimony in the Church. This was a real blessing for all in my small ecclesial community."
Marcela Benitez of Holy Redeemer in Odessa
Support RENEW
Your support is the driving force behind our mission. Your contribution enables us to create lasting transformation in our parish communities. Help RENEW help the Church thrive!
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