continues unless intentionally renewed.

That raises an important question: What kind of culture are we shaping at Christ the King–St. Stephen? Do people feel seen, welcomed, and known?

A young family once told me that what made them stay in their parish was not a program or a homily—it was someone saying, “We’re glad you’re here. The bathrooms are over there, and here’s a space where your kids can move around.” Another mother recalled walking in late to Mass with her baby and being met afterward by multiple parishioners who simply introduced themselves and said, “Welcome.” These are not grand gestures—but they are sacred ones.

Throughout my ministry, I’ve learned that the reason most people stay in a parish is because someone made them feel like they belonged. Not by accident, but by intention.

Hospitality and outreach defined the life of Jesus—and they must define our parish as well. And while I am proud of how we live this out, we can always grow more deeply into that calling.

You may know that the word Catholic comes from two Greek words: kata and holos. Holos means “whole” or “everyone,” and kata means “according to” or “including.” Put together, they express an identity of a Church that is for everyone—inclusive, embracing, and universal in its welcome.

The early Church Father, St. Ignatius of Antioch, was the first to use the word “Catholic” to describe the Christian community. In his letter to the Smyrnaeans, he wrote, “Where Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic Church.” He had been shown hospitality as he traveled to Rome for martyrdom, and he experienced firsthand how a spirit of welcome was a sign of Christ’s presence.

Christ the King Church

199 Brandon Rd, Pleasant Hill CA