X

March 8th, 2020, The 2nd Sunday of Lent

March 8th, 2020, The 2nd Sunday of Lent.

Dear Friends,

Our Lenten Mission was indeed a blessing and source of grace for those in attendance, our largest participation to date. Thanks to the Mission Committee, our Lectors, Christ Renews His Parish members, and the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion for their service in hosting each night of the mission. A special thank you to Fr. Kevin MacDonald, C.Ss.R for framing our Lenten Journey in its proper direction. We shall continue to pray for his ministry of preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ.

The major global event on everyone’s mind right now is the potential spread of the deadly Coronavirus (COVID-19). Reports of the virus have been confirmed throughout the United States, to include several cases in Florida.  The US Surgeon General Jerome Adams has stated, “We cannot hermetically seal the United States,” so please heed all of the precautionary recommendations to help quell the spread of the virus: frequent washing of hands with soap for at least 20 seconds and use of an alcohol- based antibacterial solution/ hand sanitizers, seeing your doctor if you experience any symptoms associated with the virus, and staying home if you are, in fact, ill. Please know that you are not obligated to attend Mass if you are sick, especially under these circumstances. While we continue to pray for a cure, we also pray for those affected by this deadly virus and for the health-care professionals and public officials serving for the common good of all during these difficult and uncertain times.

Today, as we enter the Second Week of Lent, we hear the clarion call of the scripture readings: Place your trust in God entirely, as did Abram when he was called to leave his father’s house and all of his kinsfolk. The Book of Genesis tells us that “Abram went as the Lord directed him.” As you follow the Lord’s command, hardship will surely follow, but fear not, for the Lord will equip you with the strength to bear it. Paul, in his letter to Timothy (2 Timothy 2:3) gently invites us thus: “Bear your share of hardship for the gospel with the strength that comes from God.” As we endure our present hardships, may the Transfiguration of Jesus give us a glimpse of what is to come … and let us continue our journey of Lent with the reassuring presence of “God with us” in the person of Jesus Christ.

Be blessed and stay healthy!

With Love, Fr. John