Dear Parishioners,
I am writing this on November 18th as I need to submit this letter early, due to holiday printing for the bulletin. I pray you are all well as can be. I do know and am aware of our many homebound who are sick and those on hospice. You are in my prayers these days and wish the COVID-19 that separates me from you would all go away! God give you all patient endurance, kinds words for others, and peace in your hearts.
It has been a l o n g month for me, (October 19- November 18, 2020) and so different not being around you. I became a priest because of leading a church and being with people making sure they can experience Jesus Christ in His real presence through the Mass. Getting sick on Monday, October 19th, 2020 caused all of this difference.
This past month was like the shutdown of March, April, and May, 2020, but, with the addition of me being sick. UGH! I was so fatigued and had such aching body pain. Oh well, that is a memory now and that, for sure, I do not want relived. I am looking forward to being at Mass and around you in good health.
Ironically, I got sick roughly three weeks before a scheduled two-week vacation and so, THANKS BE TO GOD, the two week vacation has been a welcomed time to regain, restore, and improve.
Many parishioners and family members this past month have said, “God is saying something to you Father”. I appreciate that sentiment very much. Thank you. From many of you, that comment infers that I should slow down. Hmmmm? I do walk fast, but, not exactly sure how to “change my pace” as your Pastor. Again, I appreciate you and your care for me, and simply agree that I am a work in progress; God’s progress.
You are amazing parishioners. In these past several months you never deserted our parish and it’s financial needs. So many of you already give very generously and have continued to do so. Then, even at my request to increase your offertory, you have done so! Topping that, you all dug deep to help with COVID-19 recovery of funds, which basically was the lost IN CASH weekly offertory since the end of March, which is typically about $2,000.00 a week. With no Masses in the spring and reduced number of masses as well, that in basket cash just wasn’t coming in, but you all helped tremendously to regain those lost funds. Thank you.
A concern every Pastor has is keeping a vibrant school in operation with the necessary fund raising. So far, the car raffle participation has been great. Looking forward to granting someone a BIG PRIZE on Saturday, December 5th at the drive in parking lot Car Raffle Christmas Party.
The annual GIVING TREE and its new way of operating is also very much financially supported by so many. Thank you again!
The annual season of Advent reminds us THAT GOD IS WITH US. Do not forget that in these political times and with this pandemic.
Missing you all, but am excited to be home from vacation and BEGIN TO have daily mass on Tuesday, November 24th at 8:00, which will be a live streamed Mass celebrating the IHM SCHOOL GRANDPARENTS DAY.
Many blessings,
Father Jim