This weekend we observe the national holiday in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. We also begin the annual octave of prayer for Christian Unity. These two observances remind us that we have made great strides forward as a nation and as Christian churches. We are also reminded that we have a long way to go.

The most spectacular indication that the country has made progress since the days of Dr. King is that the United States is now governed by a President of African-American descent. Such a happening was inconceivable in Dr. King's day. Likewise, the Christian churches have come much closer together since the Unity Octave was begun by non-Catholic Christians at the beginning of the 20th century. Theological dialogue has taken place at the highest levels. Suspicions have eased. Some Protestant churches have come to greater corporate unity. We now recognize that all who acknowledge one faith, one Lord, and one baptism are walking on different paths in the same direction.

It is obvious, however, that we have not yet arrived at the Promised Land, either as a nation or as churches. There is still much discrimination directed not only at African-Americans but at other ethnic groups, particularly immigrants. The churches are still not united under one shepherd in one sheepfold. We still have denominational differences in doctrinal and moral teaching, as well as in church government. Prejudice and bigotry have not disappeared. Catholics are often victims, as are other religious groups.

We have to continue to pray that we may root out racial and religious discrimination from our hearts. We need to ask the Holy Spirit to solve the inter-religious difficulties that elude our human efforts. For encouragement we have the words of Sacred Scripture: "All things are possible with God."

To change the subject: I wrote last week, and we had a special presentation after the homily to emphasize that we were hoping to increase our support of religious formation programs in the parish by adding second collections for that purpose (while subtracting single annual collections for individual programs). Unfortunately, this is not the only measure we have had to take in order to try to balance our budget for the year 2010.

Our final figures for 2009 left us with an operating deficit of over $50,000 for the second year in a row. Because the parish had a substantial reserve in the past, (before the retrofit) and because the Finance Council hoped that collection revenues could increase, drastic action was not taken.  Deficits, however, could not continue.  Therefore, this year the Finance Council, in consultation with the Diocese of Oakland, advised me to eliminate one office position and reduce the working hours of our full-time staff (excluding the clergy).  This has been done. You will receive more details at the time of the annual financial report. It is hoped that the impact to ministerial services will be minimal. We ask your patience for any inconvenience. If the economic picture changes for the better, we hope to return to full-time employment for all. Your continued generosity will prevent our having to make further cuts. If our weekly donations increase, we may be able to return to normal.

As a nation, as a church, and as a parish, this week reminds us to count our blessings and to pray for God's help, that we may make further progress.