Several people have asked how I am doing celebrating Sunday Mass in an empty church; looking at empty pews. Several have suggested adding a tape of parishioners talking, coughing and other familiar distractions. Pam texted me Sunday afternoon to remind me that I was supposed to wear pink vestments for the 4
th Sunday of Lent. Ooops! It is very different from all the 40+ years of my priesthood to be celebrating Mass with congregation that is unseen. However, as I posted last week, your feed back regarding Mass helps to know that the flock is appreciative of our efforts to continue to keep Holy the Sabbath and to be nourished and nurtured by the Word of God.
It is difficult to serve the flock when we are so scattered. How
necessary it is that we keep socially distant for the health of the community. I am trusting that everyone is looking after neighbors and
loved ones, making sure that everyone has what they need during this time.
On
Facebook and flock notes I am posting “Fr. Bill’s Briefs” a one-
minute reflection on this year’s Lenten Theme “Be Open.” I hope it is one way I can touch base with those who are socially tuned in. Tuesday, I mentioned the book by Spencer Johnson, Who Moved My Cheese? It is
available online and I believe it is FREE!! It’s a short read - may take less than an hour, but reminds us all that things constantly change, and so we must constantly adapt.
I will be live streaming Sunday Mass and hope you have the link to watch then, or at your convenience:
https://sacredhearthopedale.org/mass-video We are still trying to work out the logistics for Holy Week. That will definitely be a challenge to figure out how to do each service without a congregation. These days of Covid-19 are totally different for us all. I am thankful to our staff who is working each day to keep things running, for their wisdom, input and direction as we move into unknown territory.
Everyone, please socially distance, stay healthy and stay safe!