FEAR NOT LITTLE FLOCK

In chapter 12 of Luke’s Gospel we hear the Good Shepherd say, “Fear not Little Flock…”!  For two thousand years those words have given hope and strength to the Church, especially in times of stress, change, and wonder. Let us continue to listen to His words as we move forward as a Parish. I would like to mention a few areas to consider.

We have begun to open-up as a Parish, particularly with our Public celebrations of the Eucharist. Following the guidelines of the Archdiocese and the State many have begun to return. As a Parish, we have been aware of the need to sanitize our Church, follow the guidelines regarding masks and social distancing. All has gone well. I know that some are still fearful, but, let me assure you that like the opening of stores, restaurants and other social gathering places, we are strictly following the guidelines of Church and State. Use your best judgment but be sure your judgment is guided by solid medical and scientific advice, not by rumor or fear.

We are grateful to those who have been able to continue supporting the Parish during these trying times. That support and the PPP loan has allowed us to pay our employees and pay our bills up to the present moment. However, due to the vast unemployment and financial problems that many are experiencing, the future is not what we had hoped it would be. We have found it necessary to cut-back on many expenses for the Parish, and our employees. Many experts feel this may continue for the next two years. So, in a nutshell, we need your help and support! If you have been supporting the Parish, please try to continue! If you have not been able to support the Parish, please try to consider doing so! “Fear not Little Flock”!

Finally, if you have not done so in the past, please visit our Parish website! The website is filled with information, encouragement, and hope! There is even a means to sign-up (let us know you are coming!) for a particular weekend Mass.

There is much we could talk about, but as a Parish we must continue to listen to the Good Shepherd, “Fear not Little Flock”!

P.S.  Becket sends greetings!

  In Christ,  Fr. Tom Keyes

Reminders about the Masses

Hopefully you have been able to read my previous lengthy letter (below) about celebrating Mass in Phase 1 of our State re-opening. There is also a video below to help you see how Mass would be.

A few reminders:

1.  The doors (front only) of the Church will be opened 30 minutes before the Mass begins.
2.  You will be greeted at the door and be directed where you may sit. (there will only be 72 spots where you may sit…if more come exceeding that number, they will not be allowed in…they will have to return for another Mass).
3. Masks or face coverings must be worn during the Mass
4. Gloves should not be worn
5. Please bring personal hand sanitizer
6. There should be no congregating before, during, or after Mass
7. Please listen to directions during the Mass
8. People in Risk Groups, such as the Elderly, those with respiratory issues, those who may be ill, or those with other special needs are strongly urged NOT to attend Mass yet. It will be safer in later Phases.
9. You will be requested at the end of the Mass to leave in an orderly fashion, there can be no congregating in the Church. Once all have left the doors will be locked and the pews, etc. will all be re-sanitized before the next Mass.

This is all very different, but an attempt to protect the health of all. Please have patience so that we may all progress toward the true end of this Pandemic, which is still so very present in the World.

                                         Fr Tom Keyes

Returning to Mass; we all have a role to play in keeping each other safe and healthy. The video can be viewed by clicking on the picture below. Please take a few minutes to watch this important information which demonstrates this first step in reopening.