Good Things Take Time, and Patience Is a Virtue
Dear St. Agnes Family,
Blessings!
I am pleased to share that we are nearing completion of the installation of our new sound system in the church. This long-awaited improvement has a very simple but important purpose: to ensure that everyone can clearly hear and understand the Scriptures, homilies, prayers, wedding vows, and announcements during our celebrations. After all, God's Word deserves not only to be proclaimed, but also to be heard and understood.
To those who have expressed concerns about the sound system over the last three years, I sincerely apologize for the long wait. Since the original system was installed when our church was built, I felt responsible for exploring every reasonable possibility to improve it before making another substantial investment.
As your pastor, I listen to your concerns and take them seriously. However, I also ask for your understanding. Not everything can be accomplished immediately, and some worthwhile projects must wait. Every improvement carries a financial responsibility, and careful stewardship of our parish resources remains essential.
Another significant improvement has been the installation of LED screens. I must confess that I initially opposed having screens inside our church! My concern was preserving the beauty and reverence of our sacred space. However, after much prayer, reflection, and consultation, I came to recognize their value in communicating important messages, especially to children and young people.
We are now preparing to project selected hymns and prayers during Mass, helping everyone participate more fully in the liturgy. Naturally, this requires thoughtful preparation, coordination, and respect for the sacredness of our celebrations.
You may also remember the serious drainage problems in our plaza. During the summer, when no weddings were scheduled, we finally completed the necessary repairs. Heavy rainfall had frequently caused flooding, sometimes preventing access to the plaza. This was another substantial investment funded through our parish resources.
These projects remind us that, since the consecration of our church, many adjustments have become necessary. As I understand it, this is normal for any building. Over time, problems emerge, needs change, and improvements become necessary. Some are immediately visible, while others, equally important, go practically unnoticed.
I want to express my sincere gratitude to our Business Manager, Anabel Stevens, for addressing these many situations with professionalism, conscientiousness, and remarkable dedication. Much of her work happens quietly, behind the scenes, but its importance should never be underestimated.
And remember, our responsibilities extend well beyond the church building. Our Academy remains a major priority, particularly regarding the safety, security, and well-being of our children, teachers, and staff.
On another occasion, I hope to share more about the extensive roof replacement projects and security improvements undertaken throughout our campus. These represent significant investments and important accomplishments that deserve recognition.
My dear brothers and sisters, responsible stewardship requires balancing many needs, establishing priorities, and sometimes waiting until resources permit us to move forward. I would love to accomplish everything immediately, but being a responsible pastor also means recognizing that we cannot do everything at once.
Thank you for your patience, generosity, and continued trust. Every improvement, whether visible or unnoticed, reflects our commitment to caring for the spiritual home and educational community entrusted to us.
Ultimately, our goal is not simply to have better facilities, but to provide a safe, welcoming, and prayerful environment where our parish family can continue growing together in faith.
Good things take time, and patience truly is a virtue.
With gratitude and prayers,
Fr. Juan Carlos Paguaga
Pastor
Together, We Are St. Agnes!