A father or a mother when they say: "I am proud of you, son or daughter, for an accomplishment,” they say it with great love, joy, and honor. It comes from the father's or mother's deep heart, and usually it comes with tears of joy. This is exactly what I feel as pastor and Father of St. Thomas More Church and School. I am so proud to be the father of a wonderful family. I thank God for all that you have done and given to me, to the church, to the members of our church, and to the many people who came from everywhere to celebrate with us the Second International Food Festival.

It was the first time that we had the festival for two days, and I saw your dedication and your sacrifices of love. It was the first time that we had a shuttle to bring people from Brotherhood Way Communities and stations. It was the first time that we did a special 2008 Festival book that spoke about our history and our success as one family. It was the first time that Christians, Buddhists, and Muslims from the Burmese community came to feel as family. It was the first time that we made provisions for people with disabilities at a festival.

You gave items, money, and time, and you volunteered for hours, days, and nights. But mostly you gave your hearts and love. People from different parts of the Bay Area came despite the many other occasions in the City to support the Church and enjoy a time of relaxation and friendship. You were all and you are so beautiful, so great and so important for our Church and family. Our Second International Food festival was a great success.