Friday, March 20, 2020

A Word from Your Pastor March 15 - Third Sunday of Lent



Prudence is good advice concerning all that occurs in our lives: it is the virtue that guides us to choose “best practices” in the face of every human situation.  Bishop Brennan has invited us to exercise prudence in our response to the reality the world is facing concerning the corona virus.  The Bishops of Ohio have dispensed obligation to attend Mass for the next three weekends, but at present we are still able to have Mass publicly.
In some countries and dioceses throughout the United States, public Masses have been cancelled.  We will take advantage of being able to be present as long as we can and pray it does not come to that for us.

Many years ago when there was a concern about an especially virulent strain of the flu, we took up precaution to address that and we have simply kept them going ever since.  So, we are set to address the current situation by already engrained good habits and practices.  We may need to make a few other changes in our common practice as things develop.  In the meantime, here are some simple suggestions.

  • If you are sick, stay home and get well.

  • If you cough or sneeze, ensure that you do so into a tissue or your elbow as the current model is set.

  • If you are an extraordinary minster Holy Communion, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly and to use the sanitizer in the sanctuary before you exercise the ministry.

  • You are free to choose to abstain from shaking hands at the Sign of Peace (a bow or nod of the head is fitting). 

Fear is a poor counselor.  We must make our decisions based on good practices and practical wisdom.

Jesus is present among us.  He is the wisest of counselors.  May we open our hearts to hear His invitation to put our trust in Him.  He is the Savior of the world.  He will guide us through whatever trials we face and bring us into His Kingdom.

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