Further Notes for Church Reopening: In-church Mass and Sacraments
As we work to restore Masses with a congregation, we will do so with the safety of all in mind.
All hymnals and other such items are removed from from the pews. Nothing is to be left in the pews after Mass. Please take home your Parish Bulletin and Song Sheet. Singing will be limited.
All are expected to wash their hands at home before coming to church and to carry their own hand sanitizer. Keep in mind that to follow social-distancing guidelines the seating in the church is considerably reduced.
The Most Reverend Bishop continues the dispensation to attend Mass until further notice. You may chose to watch Mass on TV or from any parish live-stream or prerecorded platform.
For the common good, those in vulnerable groups, sick or symptomatic must stay home. Face masks are to worn by all for the health of all.
Bishop Checchio and your parish clergy are most grateful for your understanding and cooperation.
The Pastor's Pen
God Unlocks the Door
04-18-2021Fr. Matthew R. Paratore, S.T.L., J.C.L.Dear Friend,
In his book The Pressure’s Off, psychologist Larry Crabb tells this story from his childhood.
"One Saturday afternoon, I decided I was a big boy and could use the bathroom without anyone’s help. So I climbed the stairs, closed and locked the door behind me, and for the next few minutes felt very self-sufficient.
READ MOREEveryday Stewardship
Be and See the Face of Jesus
04-18-2021“Jesus himself stood among them and said to then, ‘peace be with you.’ But they were startled and frightened…” Luke 24:36-37
Throughout the day we have many opportunities to “see the face of Jesus” in others and to “be the face of Jesus” to others. Do we take that opportunity to provide “peace” to those we encounter or are we afraid of what others will think of us and do nothing? Pray for the strength and courage to live a “God-centered” life and not a “self-centered” life.
READ MOREGospel Meditation
Our Aha Moment
04-18-2021© LPiWe often act out of ignorance. Armed with the best of intentions, we think we are seeing clearly and correctly, but we are not. We don’t always understand the full meaning of things and only perceive part of the truth. Hence, our judgments and actions can be impaired by myopic, incomplete or erroneous perceptions. The meaning of life, understanding of human experience, and negotiating life’s challenges can all become skewed without proper understanding and vision. The resurrection of Christ is the corrective to our incomplete and limited view of life. Looking at things with the eyes of faith brings a depth of clarity and understanding to how we see God, ourselves, others, and the world.
READ MORESunday Mass & Holy Day Obligation
It is both a precept of the Church and Church law that Catholics must worship God on Sunday and Holy Days of Obligation by participating in the Holy Mass. This follows from the fact that in the Mass it is Christ Himself who worships the Father, joining our worship to His. In no other way is it possible to adequately give thanks (eucharistia) to God for the blessings of creation, redemption and our sanctification than by uniting our offerings to that of Jesus Christ Himself.
