Since January, we’ve introduced a Message Series at 5:30 Mass: connected homilies centered on a single theme over multiple weeks. As we evaluated this new approach, we invited feedback directly from those attending the 5:30 PM Mass through a short survey completed during Mass.
The response was overwhelmingly positive with more than 80% of participants agreeing or strongly agreeing with each of the six survey statements, while fewer than 5% disagreed with any of them.
Participants were asked to respond to the following statements using a 1–5 scale from “Strongly Disagree” to “Strongly Agree”:
• The Message Series helps me connect the Sunday readings to everyday life.
• Following a message over several weeks helps me engage more deeply with the Gospel than a standalone homily.
• The Message Series has helped me grow spiritually or reflect more deeply during the week.
• The topics and examples used in the Message Series feel relevant to my daily life.
• Knowing that a Message Series continues from week to week makes me more likely to return and invite others.
• I would like St. Isidore to continue offering Message Series at the 5:30 PM Mass.
In addition to the survey results, many parishioners also shared personal feedback. One parishioner, “Ellen,” wrote:
“The series allows for more in-depth reflections and helps me notice the connections between readings from week to week, rather than each Mass on its own… I would definitely be interested in future series.”
We are grateful for everyone who participated and shared feedback. The strong response confirmed what many have already experienced: Message Series can help people engage more deeply with Scripture, reflect more intentionally throughout the week, and feel more connected to the message from Sunday to Sunday.
As we move into the summer and prepare for the pastoral transition from Fr. Ron to Fr. John, we will be taking a short pause from Message Series. We are excited, however, to launch a new Fall kickoff Message Series in early September.
Thank you for helping us continue to explore meaningful ways to connect people more deeply with the Gospel and with parish life at St. Isidore.
