Dear Friends,
Even as we struggle mightily to grapple with the “New Norm” of having to stay home due to novel Covid-19, our Lenten Journey continues as we step into the 5th Sunday of Lent. The church in her wisdom prepares us for the greatest of all feasts, that of the Resurrection, by already presenting to us passages from the scripture that speak of God’s ability to bring life even in the face of death. Our God is a God of light and life. Prophet Ezekiel speaks some of the absolutely breathtaking words of comfort where God says: “O my people, I will open your graves and have you rise from them… I will put my spirit in you that you may live.” (cf. 37: 12-14). Jesus does the astounding sign of bringing Lazarus back to life, literally bringing to fruition what the Prophet Ezekiel had foretold. Jesus says to Lazarus who had been buried: “Lazarus, come out!” Thus, Jesus opens the grave of his friend and brings him back to life. What an astonishing God we have in the person of Jesus and how we treasure the greatest gift of the Eucharist he has left behind for us.
Even in the darkest of moments of our lives we can find some silver lining of light, life and hope. Though shut in, sheltered in place in some cases, we can take to heart the fact that this new situation has given us all enormous amount of time to bond with our families. This time of isolation has also given us opportunities for great conversations especially with our neighbors. This time of darkness has honed our skills to provide care and in some cases care for those who are worse off than us. Many “invisible hands’ are going about caring for those who cannot care for themselves. This time of seclusion has given us ample opportunity to pray and dwell on spiritual things. This time away has triggered in us a longing for God and to be part of our parish community.
Last Sunday Fr. John Patrick and I had the privilege of celebrating Mass for the first time without you being present in the church. It was one of those strangest feelings having to look around those empty pews and imagining each of you in your seats. Though utterly painful it was, thanks to our technology we could livestream the Mass and thanks to you who were able to participate in the whole Mass with your familiar sanctuary. As I promised you, we have been celebrating two Masses every day on your behalf joining you to the priceless Sacrifice of Christ.
We have been immensely gratified to know that you care for your parish. Your love for the parish has come clean with many of you answering my call to continue to support the parish with your generous donation. Many of you have mailed in your donations and some even dropped it off at the parish and some of you have taken advantage of the Online Giving facility. As never before we have opened the possibility of giving via credit/debit cards. Please accept my huge THANKS. I also appeal to those who have not given to consider giving as we strive to keep our facilities in good shape.
Our Staff and I are at work to bring out the best in these unpredictable times. If you or your loved ones need us to visit you to administer the Sacrament of Anointing, please do not hesitate to call the office. Please call the office to make an appointment to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession). We are at your service.
When you feel down and out please pray the prayer that Saint Teresa of Avila prayed when she went through some difficult times: "Let nothing disturb you, nothing frighten you, all things are passing, God is unchanging. Patience obtains everything; Nothing is lacking to those who have God: God alone is sufficient."
Please stay safe. Know that lots of prayers are going up on your behalf.
With love,
Fr. John Britto Antony C.S.C.