June 2025 Newsletter

and continues to bear fruit across the Church today.

We are deeply proud to recognize three honorees whose lives reflect the essence of RENEW’s mission:

· Sister Terry Rickard, O.P. will receive the Monsignor Thomas A. Kleissler Memorial Award (named for our co-founder)—a fitting tribute to two visionary leaders who shaped the heart of our organization.

· Reverend James Martin, S.J. will be honored with the Spirit of RENEW Award for his bold witness to the Gospel and tireless work to expand the Church’s embrace.

· The Dempsey Family will receive the President’s Award, celebrating a legacy of service and commitment.

This gathering is more than a celebration. It is a commitment to continue the work that began with our founders and is sustained by your support.

As we approach the Feast of Pentecost, we are reminded that the Church was born in fire and movement. The same Holy Spirit that stirred the apostles continues to stir within us—calling us outward, together, for the life of the world.

We hope you'll join us in prayer and in spirit as we honor these extraordinary individuals and the mission that unites us all. May the Spirit of Pentecost stir in us a deeper gratitude for our roots and a renewed resolve to carry this mission forward, together.

Blessings to all,

Meredith Augustin

Saint of the Month

Saint Anthony of Padua

Patron saint of lost things, lost people... and probably your misplaced phone!

If you've ever muttered, “Tony, Tony, look around, something’s lost and must be found,” you already know the influence of this month’s saint. But there’s a lot more to St. Anthony of Padua than just helping you find your keys or your sanity!

Born in Lisbon, Portugal in 1195, Anthony first joined the Augustinians but was so moved by the martyrdom of Franciscan missionaries that he switched orders, hoping to follow in their footsteps. Though he wanted to live quietly, God had other plans: his gift for preaching and deep knowledge of Scripture couldn’t stay hidden. He became one of the most powerful voices of his time. He was known as the “Hammer of Heretics” (not the cuddliest nickname, but effective).

St. Anthony was a man of both head and heart. He could preach to thousands, debate with scholars, and still notice the poor widow in the back who’d lost her way (or her wallet). Legends say he once preached to fish when people wouldn’t listen, and they actually paid attention.

So why is he the go-to for lost things? According to tradition, a novice who left the Franciscan order also "accidentally" took Anthony’s prized psalter (a handwritten prayer book). Anthony prayed. The novice had a change of heart and returned the book. Ever since, people have turned to Anthony when something’s gone missing: objects, direction, even faith.

In a world full of distraction, disconnection, and yes, misplaced items, St. Anthony reminds us that God still cares about the details. He invites us to preach not just with words but with lives rooted in compassion and clarity.

So whether you've lost your keys, your peace of mind, or just your place in life right now, here’s a little prayer you can use this month (or anytime you're feeling a bit misplaced):

St. Anthony, guide of seekers and finder of the misplaced, help us seek what truly matters— not just our keys or phone, but our purpose, our joy, and our calling. May we find in you a companion on the way, One who leads us, always, closer to Christ. Amen.

A Tip for Small Christian Communities to Thrive

Reconnect with your “Why.”

Every small Christian community begins with a spark—something that drew you together. But as time goes on, it’s natural to drift into routine. This month, as we celebrate Pentecost and the Feast of St. Anthony (patron of lost things), it’s a perfect moment to ask,

“Why did we start meeting? What have we gained—and what might we have misplaced along the way?”

At your next gathering, take 10 minutes to reflect on your group’s original purpose, asking,

· What inspired us to say yes in the first place?

· Where have we grown?

· What might we want to reclaim?

Invite the members to share short “mini testimonies”—moments when the group has helped them grow spiritually, emotionally, or relationally. You may be surprised by what surfaces.

Sometimes, the best way to move forward is to go back to your roots.

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