In the past two weeks it seems our news coverage has been fixated on the human drama and tragedy surrounding the refugees at the Kabul airport and the fate of Taliban rule in Afghanistan. Closer to home we certainly have our concerns domestically, but more so in the impoverished island of Haiti, our neighbor. Struggling through the curse of the Coronavirus upon the general population, they have now endured another devastating natural disaster leaving thousands homeless, with medical care and supplies depleted.

One of the first agencies to respond to the overwhelming needs is Catholic Relief Services, providing care and hope to as many as possible (dependent on their resources and support) in a country where the Catholic faith is especially evident within the lives of so many. We have our own domestic needs to support but it is just to recognize our ability to share in the efforts to bring some glimmer of hope and protection to those who have so little—and nowhere to turn. I’m asking for your support, regardless of the amount, through a second collection at each Mass next weekend, (Labor Day weekend), to provide for the ongoing outreach of Catholic Relief Services. Our offerings will go directly to CRS for the purpose of their humanitarian work for the people of Haiti. Established by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in 1943 as an outreach organization their work is defined by their Mission Statement: “Catholic Relief Services carries out the commitment of the Bishops of the United States to assist the poor and vulnerable overseas. We are motivated by the Gospel of Jesus Christ to cherish, preserve and uphold the sacredness and dignity of all human life, foster charity and justice, and embody Catholic social and moral teaching as we act to: Promote human development by responding to major emergencies, fighting disease and poverty, and nurturing peaceful and just societies; and, serve Catholics in the United States as they live their faith in solidarity with their brothers and sisters around the world.” Obviously, there are many needs in our communities and the world beyond, and I thank you for your prayerful consideration for those who suffer for some dignity and hope in the ravaged country of Haiti.

In a recent memo from the diocese to all parishes, we are strongly urged to wear masks when gathered indoors, and keep a safe distance to protect one another from the spread of the new wave of the Coronavirus. No mandate or restrictive order, just an “urging” to be aware of one another’s wellbeing, and the respect we own to each other coming together to share in the Eucharist. Such is the blessing of this Sacrament: a personal invitation to receive the presence of Christ Jesus, while belonging to thee Body of Christ in unison with all those come forward as we share together this grace of healing, of graciousness, of hope. As expected, the Bishop asked that parishes abstain from the formal Sign of Peace during Mass while receiving Communion without the offering of the Cup. We have to my knowledge allowed for the wellbeing and respect of those who share in our Eucharist within our churches of St. John’s, St. Malachy’s and Sacred Heart, with the hope our doors will remain open—a symbol of hospitality for anyone who desire to share in our prayers and Christian community.

Please note the work taking place around Sacred Heart (cement work and church window refurbishing) was part of the Parish Hall project that was delayed a bit because of the contractors’ other obligations.

Reflecting on our gospel reading, I’m recalling the days when we had to do dishes by hand; never my forte. When my mom wasn’t keeping close tabs (and I was in a hurry to get outside following supper), I simply ran water over the plates, glasses, silverware—not necessarily “purifying” them as was called for in Jewish tradition. She has the last laugh as I now do all my dishes by hand. Within the gospel is the final thought Jesus leaves with us, trusting in our own personal ‘examination’ to rid ourselves of the tendencies depriving us of His inner-peace: “From within people, their hearts, come evil thoughts of unchastity, murder, adultery, theft, greed, malice, deceit, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, folly.” And the word I left out, one that most of us ponder the meaning of and intent: “licentiousness.” “The gospel of licentiousness, of selfishness, of blaming all the difficulties of life on external factors - these are the things that are killing people today in ways that the slave whips and the overseers couldn't.” (Alan Keyes)

God Bless, Fr. Tim