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At St. Egbert Catholic Parish, we invite you to become part of our vibrant community. If you're interested in joining us, please navigate to the 'About' tab above. There, you will find our Registration Forms located under the 'Already a Frequent Visitor' section. After completing the form, you can either bring it to the Parish Office or conveniently scan and email it to churchadmin@stegbert.org. We look forward to welcoming you!

September: A Month of Reflection and Renewal

               This Week's Letter From Father

Twenty-Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time 

September 20, 2026

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

In today’s Gospel reading from Matthew 20:1-16, we see a beautiful illustration of the Kingdom of Heaven through a generous landowner. The workers mentioned are often those who face challenges, such as age, illness, or a lack of skills, rather than idleness. The compassionate landowner recognizes their worth and provides fair wages, enabling them to support themselves and their families without hardship.

This challenges us to think deeply: Are we treating our employees with the respect they deserve? Are we ensuring fair compensation for immigrant workers? Everyone has the right to enjoy a good meal at the end of the day, and together we can build a more just and compassionate society.

The Gospel of Matthew was written 50 to 60 years after Jesus’ resurrection, during a vibrant period when both Jews and Gentiles were part of the Matthean community. This Gospel highlights that all disciples- whether longstanding or new- are equally cherished by God. The author passionately urges Jewish followers to embrace their Gentile counterparts, reinforcing the universal promise of the kingdom of heaven. It’s a powerful reminder for us all to welcome one another with open hearts and to celebrate our shared journey in faith as equals.

People find God at different stages of their lives. Some are cradle Catholics, while others convert as children, teenagers, young adults, or even on their deathbeds. Regardless of when they come to faith, the reward is the same for all: eternal life with God in heaven. Everyone brings unique gifts and talents that enrich the Church community. Children share childlike faith and joy; teens infuse energy and enthusiasm; adults contribute competence, valuable skills, and insights; and senior citizens offer profound wisdom and experience. This parable invites believers of all ages to engage as disciples of Jesus, united in our mission to create a little piece of heaven here on earth.

As Christians, we form a vibrant orchestra, creating beautiful Melodies together. With the Holy Spirit’s guidance, let’s celebrate our unique gifts and harmonize in joy. Embracing this journey together, let’s enthusiastically and positively build the kingdom of heaven, sharing love and hope along the way.

In our second reading from Romans 14:7-9, St. Paul also reminds us that we are all connected on our journey of faith- none of us lives for ourselves alone. Every action we take matters, and we are accountable to the Lord. “Both in life and in death, we are the Lord’s.”

Embracing our relationship with the risen Christ enriches our lives, for He is the Lord of all, the living and the deceased. Through baptism and faith, we actively participate in the redemption and look forward to sharing in the resurrection and eternal life.

                                                                            ……

Today marks an exciting start to our First Communion Class. Embrace and cherish the incredible gift of the Eucharist as you grow in faith.

Thank you, Bethany and Mark Kerrigan, for hosting such a fabulous Labor Day party. It was a joy to catch up with you and your family. The steaks were absolutely amazing. I'm thrilled to hear that every one in your family is doing well.

A heartfelt thank you to Bridget and Bob Stubblefield for the wonderful Italian lunch. I truly cherished our time together and am so glad to hear you’re both doing well.

I love seeing Eastern Black Swallowtails in my garden. Their striking yellow and orange spots add such joy and beauty to the space. What a delight!

Fall officially begins on Tuesday, September 22, and I couldn’t be more excited. Autumn brings vibrant leaves and delicious apples, creating a magical atmosphere. I wholeheartedly resonate with Emily Bronte’s words:

“Every leaf speaks bliss to me

Fluttering from the autumn tree.”

Wishing you a beautiful and cozy Autumn,

Fr. Ryszard

Welcome Message

Greetings in Christ Jesus!

Whether you are just visiting for a short while, have moved here and are joining our parish, or are returning to your Catholic Faith, on behalf of our parish community, we welcome you to St. Egbert Catholic Church and the beautiful Crystal Coast of North Carolina.

When Jesus was asked which of all the commandments was the greatest, he replied, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.  This is the great, and first commandment. And a second is like it, you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” These two Commandments form the foundation of our mission to Love God, Love Neighbor, and to Share the Good News.