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
The Long Process of Healing
11-22-2020Fr. Matthew R. Paratore, S.T.L., J.C.L.Dear Friend,
Healing takes time, patience and determination to persevere through the long process of healing.
It’s not easy, but it is the reality of the healing process.
A good friend recently told me his own experience with the healing process of his right knee. About two years ago he had a total right knee replacement. When his knee started acting up and hindering his walking he wanted his knee to be better right now - not tomorrow. He wanted a microwave healing. He wanted immediate results from his first surgery. He wanted it fixed now, because he had things to do and he was tired of waiting for it to heal!
READ MOREEveryday Stewardship
Giving of Oneself is true Generosity
11-22-2020“...whatever you did for one of the least of my brothers, you did for me..” Matthew 25:40
Most of us are generous when it’s convenient for us. We are generous when we have the time or the money. But, generosity is the opposite of that. It means giving of one’s time, money, compassion, forgiveness or mercy when it’s not convenient; when it’s not on our schedule, but on the other person’s schedule.
READ MOREGospel Meditation
The Feast of Christ the King
11-22-2020© LPiMany Americans are fascinated with England’s monarchy. For many different reasons, we are drawn to the regal pageantry and all of the protocols associated with royal lifestyles. What’s most amazing is that for all of the media attention focused on the comings and goings of English royalty, they really have very little effect on the day to day dealings of their country. Thoughts and images of kings and queens are often centered on this story book understanding of who and what they are. We associate protocols, etiquette, and proper words and actions to how we approach members of a royal family. These tools serve the necessary purpose of keeping them isolated, enthroned, and at a distance. There is something attractive about being an observer of ritual, pomp, and circumstance. It’s almost theatrical.
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.
