Father Theodore G. Munz, S.J.

July 5, 2026

“…With a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.” These are the ending words of the Declaration of Independence.

The Fourth of July is a day for parades, barbecues, fireworks, family outings and trips, and perhaps a baseball game. The holiday is fun and festive, and a respite from a full work week. I don’t think that extended reflection on “life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness” is part of the day for most people.

That’s okay. If you feel moved to reflect on “the protection of divine Providence,” consider resources from the American bishops by searching for “We Hold These Truths USCCB.” For a longer prayer before the hamburgers and potato salad, you might use the “Prayer of Consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.” Above all, take a few moments together to give thanks for our cherished freedoms and to remember those who gave their lives for the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Happy 250 America! Happy 150 St. Mary! May we continue to trust in divine Providence.

July 12, 2026

Wednesday, July 1, 2026: I officially began my term as pastor of the Church of St. Mary in Lake Forest.

My greatest joy these past six months has been celebrating Eucharist with you. That will not change. Eucharist is our life, our strength, our courage, and our hope.

Thank you for welcoming me and embracing me. Meals, fellowship, and enjoyable conversation fill a lot of my days.

St. Mary’s is a faith-filled community. The words of the “Our Father” and the Creed are in your hearts and give rise to giving glory to God in your work, with your neighbors, and in your families.

You are generous in service through outreach to our sisters and brothers in need whether locally, in the Archdiocese, or throughout the world. You give yourselves generously through teaching our youth, through ministerial outreach, through liturgical ministries, and through the myriad of councils and committees.

Our school and church are treasures.

Our staff is committed to serving you generously. I am blessed to serve with them.

Let us continue to grow together. Stay involved, get involved. We are St. Mary, 150 years strong! The Kingdom of God is here.

Saturday, July 25, 5:00pm Mass

An historical moment for the Church of St. Mary! Bishop O’Malley will dedicate the new altar at the 5:00pm Saturday Mass. A reception follows the liturgy. The altar dedication is the culmination of vision, hard work, and sacrifice to renovate our beautiful church. Your gifts have made this possible. Thank you. The renovated church is a treasure for this and future generations. Above all, in this church we dedicate ourselves to the honor and glory of God.

Friday, July 31, 7:30am Mass

Feast of St. Ignatius Loyola. Please join me at the morning Mass in celebrating the life of Ignatius Loyola and his followers for 486 years, the Society of Jesus. A light breakfast follows the liturgy.