Pastor’s Letter: March 8, 2020

Pastor’s Letter: March 8, 2020

10 Mar 2020 | Posted by: chadmin

Dear friend,

About a month ago, Bishop Jenky sent a letter to the pastors about the flu season. Our bishop has sent a similar letter for several years in a row. With the current concerns of the coronavirus, Bishop Jenky sent a letter to the Diocese again this week. Essentially our bishop was reiterating the points he has consistently made during the flu season. Bishop Jenky formally suspended the distribution of the chalice to the faithful for those churches that often offer the Precious Blood to the community. He reiterated that the Eucharist is the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ. We believe the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity are present in the consecrated bread and wine. Thus, one can receive just the host or just the chalice and still receive the fullness of Holy Communion. When Good Friday arrives, it may be necessary for us to reverence the Cross of Christ in another form than the typical kiss during the liturgy. The sign of peace can be given with a wave or a smile, but we have suspended the sign of peace for a time. Essentially, our bishop points out that our churches are no more or less safe than going to work, school, or any public space. It is important that we all use common sense in every flu season, but particularly with the current coronavirus concerns. If you are sick, the Sunday Obligation is removed. There is no sense in passing illness on to others if you know you are sick. For the time being, use good common sense about regularly washing hands, using hand sanitizer, avoiding the touching of eyes and face, doing our best to not pass on illness if we happen to become sick. While coronavirus is not a reality in our local area, it could become one; and, in that case the same guidance will apply. I will still be in back of church after Masses to say hello, but don’t feel any obligation to shake my hand. A wave and a smile are certainly good ways to offer a greeting.

Biblical theologians have written extensively about this week’s gospel reading on the Transfiguration of the Lord. Jesus takes Peter, James and John up a mountain by themselves. During that time the Lord appears shining white and the voice of God the Father is heard. “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him,” the Father says. Moses and Elijah appear setting the framework for the connection of Jesus’ ministry to the Old Testament Law and prophets. The words of Jesus after the Transfiguration give marching orders for all of us. “Rise, and do not be afraid” the Lord said to His friends. It is understandable that such a sight would elicit fear in Peter, James and John; but, the Lord invites them to get the message behind the miracle. This is the same call for all of us at every Mass when we experience the miracle of the Eucharist. We are called to take what we receive sacramentally and what we learn intellectually and apply it to our lives without fear of evil or our lack of perfect understanding of all things Divine. May the season of Lent offer us the opportunity to grow closer to God and implement Divine Truths into the world in which we live.

God bless,

Father David