March 16th, 2020

Friends:

“I picked the wrong Lent to give up drinking” a mom on Facebook said last evening. I agree! This isn’t the Lent you or I expected or wanted but it is the Lent we got….and Holy Week and Easter too. As things seem to be ramping up for several weeks of “smaller living”, I want to offer the guidance that I can as your pastor for over a decade when I’ve seen the people of the Ville always come together, for good and bad, to be bigger and better than any adversity. However, with the help of God and graces given to the faithful we can be even better than we have been. He holds us in His hands and we hold one another.  Here’s a general outline of what the next few weeks are going to look like as a parish and I’m hoping we can help you and your families carry this Cross in the light of faith.

1. Sunday Mass – will be offered and broadcasted on Sundays (God-willing) from our beloved Church and posted on our website and Facebook. It’ll be good to see familiar turf again, even if it is only on a screen. Daily Mass – will be offered privately for the intentions given.
2. Confessions - as the weather improves may be done “drive through” at a distance – not kidding.
3. We’re gonna call everyone and check in, pray with your family, and see if you are in need.  If we have your number, sometime during the next eight weeks, we’ll call you. Family members should check in personally and frankly, we should too, because we’re His family and if needs arise, we will try to help you.
4. Baptisms are postponed until at least May 15^th – especially because of numbers coming together and small children.
5. First Communions and Confirmations seem (according to the CDC) to be a no-go. They are effectively banning anything over 50 people. We will do these as soon as we are able. Do not fear about the Mass cards, the classes or anything right now.
6. Catholic Charities, the Food Pantry and Saint Mary’s will be working together to set up an effective system of support. More to come on this.
7. We’ll be using our social media and website for a lot of cool stuff for your kids and you. Rosary, updates, or even just a good laugh to keep us in good spirits.
8.  Finally, we can only help others with resources, funds and emergencies if we all have your support. Eight weeks of no collections means we lose $170,000 effectively – please consider going to our website and start to give online through WeShare.
9. Remember – we are better together – with prayer and with patience we will be closer as a parish, family, and community when this is all over.