Church of the Little Flower
Father JC's Page
A little about me....
I was born in the Philippines on April 14… many years ago! Growing up, I wanted to be either a pilot or a lawyer - but early on in my childhood, I realized my passion for the arts, especially for music and theater.
Music has always been my connection to God. Music brought me close to church as a youth. Music is also my best form of prayer. I have gained real friends (and families) through Music. It has always been a part of my life.
I see that the spiritual life is a journey. Life itself is a journey: an Emmaus walk with a friend, the Camino - a pilgrimage. We walk together - where Jesus Christ is at the center, and our Blessed Mother Mary holding our hand. I am thrilled that I am with you on this journey - our path - the Little Way.
Building friendships and small christian communities have always been my passion. Sharing faith and simple stories nourish me spiritually; I find that sharing the grief, pain and struggles - as well as the joys, victories and successes - of people is at the core of my calling. I thrive in places where there are real people who are searching for real questions and answers in life.
I have a lot of favorite things to do and places yet to see. I have recently found myself passionate about technology and the New Media. (I don’t like selfies, but always find myself having to do it anyway!)
I like to binge-watch series on Netflix, HBO Max, Disney Plus and Hulu. I like food and I enjoy traveling - exploring new places and learning little things about their great people and their history.
In summary - Who is JC? One who loves God and is fascinated by people:
a very happy Catholic priest!
Fr. JC Merino
Your Parish Priest
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Fr. JC's Pastoral Letter
Dear Little Flower Parents and Families,
One of the greatest joys of our parish is seeing our children at Mass. Children belong here. Families belong here. Their presence is a beautiful sign that our Church is alive and that faith is being handed on to another generation.
At the same time, we want to help our children discover that the church (the Mass) is a sacred place where we listen, pray, and encounter Jesus. We kindly ask parents to help children participate as reverently as they are able. If a little one becomes especially restless, talkative, or needs a moment to settle, please feel completely comfortable stepping into the Narthex and returning when ready. There is never any embarrassment in doing so.
We also ask everyone to remember that some members of our parish, especially those with hearing difficulties (and hearing aids), can find it challenging to hear the readings, prayers, and homily when there is prolonged conversation or background noise.
So let us care for one another. Let us welcome our children with love, help them grow in reverence, and make room for every person to hear, pray, and encounter the Lord.
Thank you, parents, for bringing your children to Mass. Keep bringing them. We are grateful they are here, and we are grateful for you.
We are one Little Flower family, learning together how to love Jesus and one another.
Your parish priest,
Fr JC Merino
2026 Archive
Pilgrimage