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God Is Moving at Saint Paul! A Parish Growing in Faith, Fellowship, and Service

2 days ago
5 min read

Updated: 6 hours ago

There is so much good happening at Saint Paul Catholic Church, and we are just getting started! Across our parish, God is drawing people closer to Himself, building relationships, deepening faith, and inspiring us to serve our neighbors. From those exploring the Catholic faith for the first time to longtime parishioners growing as disciples, we are seeing what happens when we make room for the Holy Spirit to work.

Our mission is more than simply coming to Mass on Sunday. We are called to grow in our relationship with Jesus, build a community rooted in His love, and carry the Gospel into the world. Here are just a few of the ways that mission is coming to life at Saint Paul.


Look What God Is Doing!


40 People on the Journey to Becoming Catholic


Our Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) community is welcoming approximately 40 people who are exploring the Catholic faith and taking steps toward full communion with the Church. Each person brings a unique story, questions, and a desire to discover where God is leading them. Through prayer, formation, fellowship, and the witness of our parish community, we walk alongside them as they grow in faith and discern their next steps.


Their journey is also an invitation for all of us to rediscover the beauty of our Catholic faith and remember that it is never too late to take a step closer to Christ.


The Rescue Project: Discovering the Good News


What is the Gospel, and what difference does it make in our everyday lives? Through The Rescue Project, OCIA inquirers and fellow parishioners are exploring the incredible story of God's love and the hope we find in Jesus Christ. Together, participants reflect on what God has done for us and what it means to live in the freedom and joy of the Gospel.


These conversations remind us that evangelization begins with encountering Christ and sharing the good news of what He has done in our lives.


The 10-10 Challenge: Growing as Disciples


This summer, approximately 40 parishioners committed to the 10-10 Challenge: 10 weeks of daily prayer and weekly small-group gatherings. By setting aside intentional time for prayer and connecting with others on the same journey, participants took meaningful steps toward a deeper relationship with Jesus.


Discipleship grows through small, faithful choices made day after day. As we learn to listen to the Lord and put His teachings into practice, we become better equipped to share His love with those around us.


Sing the Rosary: Growing Closer to Our Blessed Mother


Our parish has also gathered for Sing the Rosary, bringing generations together in prayer and song to honor Our Blessed Mother. These beautiful gatherings have strengthened our devotion, encouraged fellowship, and reminded us of the power of praying together as a community of faith.


Sent to Serve: Putting Faith into Action


Faith comes alive when we put love into action! Through our Sent to Serve parish-wide service days, more than 100 parishioners have come together on two separate occasions to serve our community.


From helping at local organizations to lending a hand wherever there is a need, these days of service give us an opportunity to become the hands and feet of Christ. We are grateful to everyone who has given their time and energy to serve our neighbors and show that the love of Christ extends beyond the walls of our church.


Gather & Give: Loving Our Neighbors


Last year, parishioners came together to collect canned goods and assemble hygiene kits for Religious Community Services (RCS), helping provide practical support to individuals and families in our community.


We are excited to bring Gather & Give back this November! Through shared service, prayer, and fellowship, we will once again have the opportunity to care for our neighbors and put our faith into practice. Stay tuned for details on how you can participate and contribute.


Growing Together in God's Word


Throughout Saint Paul, Bible study groups are helping parishioners grow in their understanding of Scripture and deepen their relationship with Christ. Whether gathering with fellow women, men, families, or small groups, studying God's Word helps us see how His truth speaks to our lives today.


There is always more to discover in Scripture, and growing in faith is a lifelong journey. We encourage you to explore the Bible studies and formation opportunities available in our parish and find a group where you can learn, pray, and grow alongside others.


You're Invited: Heaven and Hope — An All Saints' Celebration!


Sunday, November 1 | 5:30 p.m. | Beginning in the Church

As we celebrate the Solemnity of All Saints, join us for Heaven and Hope, a joyful evening for families to celebrate the saints and the hope we have in Christ.


Optional: Come dressed as YOUR FAVORITE SAINT and bring a flashlight as we begin our evening in the church. This is a wonderful opportunity for children and adults alike to learn about the saints, celebrate our Catholic faith, and enjoy fellowship with our parish family.


We look forward to celebrating with you!


How Can You Be Part of It?


Evangelization is not just the work of parish staff. It is the mission of every baptized Christian. Each of us is called to share the love of Christ through our gifts, our relationships, and our willingness to serve.


As our parish continues to grow, one important way to help is by joining our Hospitality Team. Behind every welcoming parish event are people who quietly make things happen. From preparing a meal to arranging a room, these acts of service create an environment where people feel welcomed, connected, and open to encountering Christ.


We welcome volunteers who can help with:

  • Setting up and cleaning up for parish events

  • Preparing or serving food

  • Shopping for event supplies

  • Decorating and creating welcoming spaces

  • Sharing special talents, ideas, and helping hands with behind-the-scenes projects


You don't have to be an expert, have all the answers, or give hours of your time every week. Every contribution matters! When we share the work, we create more opportunities for people to experience the warmth of our parish community and encounter the love of Christ.


Perhaps God is calling you to serve in a ministry, join a Bible study, help welcome newcomers, or simply invite a friend to an upcoming parish event. Whatever your gifts may be, there is a place for you at Saint Paul.


Let's Keep Growing Together!


Want to learn more about OCIA? Interested in growing in your faith? Looking for a way to serve? Or simply curious about what God is doing at Saint Paul? We would love to hear from you!


Contact Marisa McDonald, Director of Evangelizationmmcdonald@spccnb.org

The Holy Spirit is at work in our parish, and there is so much more to come. As we continue to grow in faith, strengthen our relationships, and serve our neighbors, may we always remember that we are not simply building programs—we are building up the Body of Christ.


Come be part of the mission. There is a place for you here!


 
 
 

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ADDRESS

252-638-1984

 

3005 Country Club Rd.

New Bern, NC 28562

​

welcome@spccnb.org

ABOUT US

Rooted in Christ’s Living Word and nourished by the Sacraments, our mission is to revitalize the faith and hope of our parish community. Empowered by the Holy Spirit and the teachings of Christ and His Church, we are committed disciples, who strengthen the Body of Christ through a life of prayer, fellowship, sacrificial love, and service.

 

We welcome cradle Catholics, those coming back to the Church after years away, and those who have never stepped foot in a Catholic Church. If you have questions about the faith, how to join the Church, or how to get connected with our parishioners and ministries, please reach out to welcome@spccnb.org. We'll be happy to help! 

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