Blessed

Dear sisters & brothers in Christ,

I pray that you are blessed. Even though we cannot gather with all of our family and friends physically, we can join with them in spirit and love. During these difficult times it is a true blessing to have family and friends who love and care for us. They are the true blessing to be thankful for. We can appreciate the sacrifice that love sometimes requires. It is better to make those sacrifices and keep our distance than run the risk of seeing loved ones get sick.

Well I figured with the way the numbers were rising, it was only a matter of time before one of the staff got sick. Unfortunately, it has happened. Our music director, Carol has tested positive and thankfully, is doing ok. Most of the staff were exposed as well. While the staff member and I were both wearing masks, we did have some face to face conversations that were over 15 minutes and my Doctor has recommended that I quarantine. Several other staff members were also exposed and I have sent them home until we can figure out who needs to be quarantined. Luckily Fr. Chung and the other Redemptorists were not exposed and the parish can remain open. This is why I urge people to stay home if you are not feeling well, whether you think it is Covid or something else, it isn’t worth the risk.

We are expecting new regulations from the diocese later this week. Due to the holidays I have to write this letter on November 18th, well before you will actually read it. By the time you do, we will know if any of us are showing symptoms and we will know the specifics of the temporary closures. We are expecting to close down most things. Fortunately, we are still able to celebrate mass.

Please continue to pray for all of those suffering due to this virus, whether physically, emotionally, spiritually or financially. And let us pray that the vaccines will truly get things under control. Take care and be safe.

P.S. Today, November 29th, is my mother’s birthday. I want to wish her a happy & blessed birthday. I am so thankful to be blessed with a family that has loved and supported me during the good times, as well as, the bad.

In the Redeemer, Fr. Rick