A Message to Our Parishioners from Fr. Benedykt

Dear Parishioners,

 

I wanted to let everyone know what is happening at St. Bernadette Parish during these difficult and uncertain times.

 

Masses were suspended last weekend, and will continue to be suspended until further notice. This affects the entire Archdiocese and the decision came from Cardinal Cupich. Although many of you may be upset by this decision, please understand that it was made based on guidelines from public health departments and with the goal of preventing further spread of the disease. There are many different ways in which we can worship, chief among them through prayer. In addition, daily readings are online on the U.S. Bishop's website ( www.usccb.org). There are also video and audio reflections on their website as well.

 

Although we are prevented from physically gathering as a community for the celebration of Mass, I want to let you know that both Fr. Bob and I will continue to celebrate Mass ourselves, privately, for the Mass intentions of the day, as well as for all of our health care workers, those who are sick, and for all the people of St. Bernadette.

 

I also wanted to let you know that the parish will continue, as best we can, to provide opportunities for spiritual enrichment. The Church is more than just a building, it is the relationship between God and His people, between us and one another. In these difficult times, it becomes even more important that we grow and nurture these relationships. In order to provide opportunities for spiritual enrichment, the parish will continue to:

I would also recommend calling a friend or a family member and sharing your experience of God over the course of the day or week, or perhaps sharing your thoughts about the readings of the day. In these ways, we can practice "spiritual communion" and maintain our sense of being one community.

 

I also wish to remind everyone that  both Fr. Bob and I are available for emergency anointing of the sick. Although the parish office is closed, our parish staff is still reachable through email and we are checking the parish voicemail. All events and activities are suspended or postponed. Specifically:

The pilgrimages to Ireland in July is still proceeding as planned as of right now, however the pilgrimage to Germany has been postponed until 2022. That is all the information we have at this time.

 

Finally, please pray for those on the front lines of this outbreak. Our doctors, nurses, health care professionals, and anyone sick are greatly in need of prayers. Please stay safe.

 

In Christ,

Fr. Benedykt