The Rescue Project is not simply another parish program; it is intended to help transform the entire culture of the parish by leading parishioners to a deeper understanding of the radical nature of God’s love for every person.
At a recent dinner, a parishioner asked, “Whom is the parish going to rescue?” While understandable, the question misses the central point. The focus of the Christian faith is not whom an individual or parish will rescue, but whom God will rescue. The answer is not merely “other people,” but every person—including each member of the parish community.
When this same point was shared at a recent Women of Faith gathering, one participant exclaimed, “That feels so liberating; I feel a weight being lifted from my shoulders.” Her response reflects precisely the rest and freedom Jesus promises:
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
—Matthew 11:28–30
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Practicing Catholics: Perhaps you’ve been practicing the Catholic religion for years or even decades, but is it possible that there is more to learn or maybe even a helpful paradigm shift to lean into? The Rescue Project is for you!
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Returning Catholics/new parishioners/seekers: Are you new or returning to our parish? Not only will you learn a lot about God’s unfathomable love for you, but you will also get to meet other amazing parishioners!
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Anyone engaging in sacramental preparation: Are you getting ready to have your child baptized? Or in line to receive first communion or confirmation? Are you wanting to get married? The Rescue Project will be “Stage 1” of each of these tracks!
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Non-practicing Catholics: There are several folks in our area who do not yet practice our religion (i.e. don’t go to Mass or Confession) but who do come to us for other spiritual and/or corporal needs (e.g. funerals, blessings, counseling, food, financial assistance, etc.). We’re happy to serve everyone regardless of their religious affiliation, but now we will also have an organized way to introduce them into a loving relationship with the merciful and saving God!
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The Rescue Project is an 8-week course and we plan on running it 3 times a year (8 weeks on, 8 weeks off). The Second cycle will likely begin on Wednesday, September 9th, from 6 to 830pm in the JPII Room. Light refreshments will be served.
The Rescue Team.
The Rescue Project is more than a program—it’s an invitation to encounter the life-changing love of Jesus Christ. At Our Lady of the Valley, our team of dedicated volunteers walks alongside you, creating a welcoming space to explore the beauty and truth of the Gospel.
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Our seminary rector led me and my classmates through the Rescue Project and it completely transformed my relationship with Christ. It blew me away to know that God loves me so much that he wants to rescue me.
Diocese of Boise Seminarian Nathan Ribb
