There is new life all around us. Our daffodils are blooming in front of the church and the tulips are well along the way. There are new animals and birds. Even the eagles have two in their nest.
Join us for Spring Cleanup this Saturday, April 17 from 10:00 to noon. We'll be cutting back perennials and shrub care. Bring your tools, leaf blowers and pitchforks.
The guidelines from the CDC for what we can do and still be safe seem to change every week. We are seeing more and newer faces every weekend. It will still be some time before we all gather and feel safe.
It appears that the governor is thinking that as more folks get vaccinated that in the spring we might be able to sit closer together, about 3 feet instead of 6 feet apart.
It has been a year now since COVID has taken over our headlines. I find it humorous that every week or so science and/or medicine comes out with a new discovery or something that is now good.
With the advent of this virus last spring we have been doing ministry in new ways. As we have a discussion with the Parish Council trustees and staff we are asking what ministry will look like in the future and how we might address that in our activity.
Since COVID has struck the world, the nation, and our own state, it has been inspiring to see parents and children working together on various faith projects.
You continue to impress me with your faith and your actions. Other then the bitter cold freezing people out, your attendance at weekend Masses remains strong and many more have chosen to attend one of the weekday Masses.
As the readings reflect from the Gospel of Mark, Jesus was all about physical connection. Despite the virus as it runs around our state and takes it toll on people, I cannot express how glad I am to see you coming to church and attending to neighbors that you have been.
As you may have noticed we have had a bunch of funerals lately. It continues to amaze me how many of you come to those funerals, even though you do not know the people.
Let me extend to all of you a very heartfelt response to your very warm greetings on the 40th anniversary of my ordination. I have received notes from everywhere I have served. The outpouring from parishioners at St. Joe’s has been particularly strong and it is all appreciated.
Some home remodelers or business’s who do remodeling have told me that many folks are doing something in their house. There is painting, moving walls, changing where appliances were. We’ve been doing that also.