While in some parishes there is a willingness to seize the opportunity and begin to re-open churches for the celebration of the Mass (with groups under 25 in number and many other restrictions and limitations), our situation here at Holy Cross is different. Because of Fr. Mark’s underlying health condition, we will not be re-opening in the manner that even some of our neighbors will be. For now, our pastoral team encourages all of us to keep our focus on Jesus, He who promised that He would be with us until the end of time.
It is easy for us to be inwardly focused right now and think about the things we cannot have or the things we cannot do. But the coronavirus is still present in our community and it is already known to be a deadly, silent presence among us. Our number one priority continues to be the public health and safety of all of our people, especially those who are most vulnerable to the way this virus attacks.
Again, please keep the Lord and His promise not to abandon us a first priority. Please be aware of His presence and how He is sustaining us through these obviously hard times. While it is important to want to be back in church and share in our life as a close-knit community, we have to be sensitive to the vulnerable and keep in mind the hardships and burdens that a lot of people are experiencing now: those already sick; those who have died; those unable to properly grieve the loss of loved ones; those who are facing economic hardship because of the loss of their jobs; and those feeling the mental anguish of being alone and feeling so isolated.
Hopefully, we can all admit that it is a delicate balance we are trying to keep these days, but the Lord can help us keep things in proper balance and perspective. While it may be frustrating to see other parishes re-opening in a limited way, we encourage your patience and your vigilant understanding and hope. Please continue to join us for the live-streamed Masses in English at 5pm on Saturdays and in Spanish at 12pm on Sundays (both of which are available throughout the weekend and during the rest of the week).
Blessed John XXIII
Lord Jesus Christ, who are called the Prince of Peace, who are yourself our peace and reconciliation, who so often said, “Peace to you,” please grant us peace. Make all men and women witnesses of truth, justice, and tender love. Banish from our hearts whatever might endanger peace. Enlighten our rulers that they may guarantee and defend the great gift of peace. May all people of the earth become as brothers and sisters. May longed-for peace blossom forth and reign always over us all. In your Holy Name we pray. Amen.
