The Solemnity of The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ

My dear sisters and brothers:

We have walked these many days in a whirlwind of uncertainty and at times fear. We have distanced ourselves from one another in some form or another wondering the ifs and when’s of the “New Now”.   Thanks be to God that we have received no announcement of virus infected parishioners. Our Lady of Good Health has certainly been watching over our beloved parish, for this we are all grateful.

It is now time for us to begin thinking of the “New Now” here at Saint Mary's. As you are well aware Bishop Gregory announced the beginning of daily mass in weeks past and now after prayer, discernment and consultation with his council  has announced the public celebration of Sunday Masses beginning with the Solemnity of Pentecost (May 30-31). However, individual pastors are to decide, given their parish’s circumstances, when it is possible and prudent to resume Sunday Masses, whether on Pentecost or at a later date. The decision on when to reopen should be based on prayerful discernment regarding how the local public health guidance - such as 50% occupancy, with social distancing and sanitizing – can be accomplished in the current circumstance of the parish. 

With the above stated, I have decided for all concerned that we will not begin to celebrate Masses here at Saint Mary's until the Solemnity of The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ  ( June 13-14).  As you are well aware we began our interior renovations in the church on Easter Monday as planned. Since then we have moved with great strides and continue to do so.  However, the church is in no way ready to accommodate the faithful.  We are still working on the main floor. The bathrooms are in process of being up-dated and all the pews have been removed and sent away to be refurbished. Along with this comes the reality of having sanitary supplies that must be used after each Mass.  This is a very large concern since supplies needed in the amounts we require are in great demand.  Until such time for supplies along with the  training of how to  best sanitize the church according to the proper protocols and along with continued renovations I will not open our doors at this time. I must be concerned with safety and good health practices for all concerned.

I understand and appreciate your dismay but I humbly ask for your continued patience during this time of transition.  Let us continue to pray for one another and for all those of our sisters and brothers who may be sick with the virus.  For all who have passed into eternal glory, may they rest in peace.     

May the Lord give you peace.

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