23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Dear Parishioners,

     The number of COVID cases has dramatically increased in our country.  Just today I went to anoint two people, a man and his wife who have COVID.  At least one of them were vaccinated.  Both were in the hospital.  Both were on oxygen and were very uncomfortable.  I think they will live if all goes well.  It was another reminder to me that the COVID pandemic is still raging.  In fact, it is getting worse.

    I am tired of wearing masks and of worrying about going out in public, but I don’t get mad when health officials ask me to get vaccinated or wear a mask.  It is not their fault that COVID is out of control.  When I listen to health care professionals, I don’t get a sense that they enjoy giving the public bad news.  They would probably rather live in obscurity, the way they normally do.  They feel they must mandate things to try and save people’s lives and health.

     I say all this because our governor has asked us to once again mask up when we are gathered indoors.  This includes Mass.  I would remind people who we are protecting.  It is not about personal freedom or taking care of ourselves.  No, taking health care precautions is about loving our neighbor.  When I wear a mask, it is not about saving my health.  It is about looking out for others. I have lost friends and relatives to COVID.  Many of you have as well.  Let’s mask up remembering those who have paid the ultimate price.

     I would ask people to wear masks to church until further notice.  There will be no one at the door to police this.  We will be on the honor system.  I thank you in advance for your cooperation.

May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over you this week.

Fr. Mark