The Rescue Project is not simply another program in our parish: it is intended to help transform the entire culture of our parish as we discover more deeply just how radical God’s love for each one of us is.
At a dinner a few weeks ago a parishioner asked me, “Who are we going to rescue?” That’s a fine question, but that misses the bullseye. The focal point of our religion is not “who am I going to rescue,” but rather “who is God going to rescue?” and the answer is not “other people,” but rather “me and you!” A couple of weeks ago I visited the Women of Faith gathering and made this same point and one of the ladies exclaimed, “Wow! That feels so liberating; I feel a weight being lifted off of my shoulders.” Precisely! Remember what Jesus said?
“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-
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 first cycle will begin on Pentecost Sunday, May 27th, 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
