Dear Parishioners and Friends,

Clearly, we are passing through some difficult times.  The spread of the coronavirus pandemic continues to trouble us in so many ways.  I need not list them.  Nevertheless, we commit ourselves to do the best under the circumstances.  Though the temptation to discouragement is great, we lift up our heads; resolve to take the high road, and push on.  Ultimately, what matters most, no matter what, cannot be taken away from us.
Just as Jesus “was moved with pity” for the crowd, gathered around Him, His Most Sacred Heart draws us to Him.  Not in an abstract way, but personally.  Remember the old spiritual: “Nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen, nobody knows but Jesus.” And then: “There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole. . .”  When I was in seminary, over forty years ago, we boldly sang out: “Rise up, O men of God!  Have done with lesser things, Give heart, and soul, and mind, and strength To serve the King of kings.”  During the fearful days of WWII American and British soldiers sang:  “Onward, Christian soldiers, Marching as to war, With the Cross of Jesus Going on before.”

I have often recommended a study of The Catechism of the Catholic Church.  We now have hardback copies in the office for only $10.00. (We have blessed candles for the home altar for a donation of only $5.00.)  Perhaps, this would be a good time to study the fourth section on prayer, based on the “Our Father.” 

Jesus feeds us in mind, body, and soul.  He feeds us in the Holy Eucharist and by His most holy Word.  Now is a time to hunger more and more for the Holy Eucharist, if we cannot receive Him in Holy Communion.  Now is a time to study the Word of God in the Scriptures and review and study Christian doctrine.  
“Faith of Our Fathers, holy faith, we will be true to thee till death.”

Yours in the Immaculate Heart of Mary,
Fr. Mark G. Mazza, Pastor