Weekend Update

06-14-2020Weekly Flocknote MessageFr. James Aboyi

Dear Parishioners,

I hope you and your family are doing well. Recently we have learned of an increase of new COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations here in Arizona. During the week, I received several emails from parishioners suggesting ways to ensure the safety of everyone during Mass and office visits during this time. Most suggestions centered on wearing face masks during Mass. While some are in favor of requiring face masks, others are against the idea of mandating it. My response to this particular issue is not to take sides in any way, but to appeal for a common understanding from everyone.

I understand that although they suggest it, neither the CDC or State of Arizona has mandated the wearing of masks in any public gathering, so it would be difficult for me to mandate this. I appeal to everyone not to focus only on the legality or the scientific evidence for or against wearing masks, but above all, to consider the Christian love and charity we owe each other in our decision.

I understand that, generally, everybody is a potential carrier of the virus, even when one does not show any symptoms. This is concerning and shows the need for us to do our small part to help protect others, especially when we feel safe ourselves. I would like to appeal to everyone to consider wearing a mask during Mass; doing so is not so much for our own safety or benefit, but for the sake of our brothers and sisters in Christ who may have a compromised immune system or feel unsafe around those not wearing masks and still want to worship at Mass with us. As Catholics, we are called to be charitable, which sometimes causes us to make sacrifices for the common good. This is what St. Paul means when he wrote to the Corinthians:

“Although I am free in regard to all, I have made myself a slave to all so as to win over as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew to win over Jews; to those under the law I became like one under the law—though I myself am not under the law—to win over those under the law. To those outside the law I became like one outside the law—though I am not outside God’s law but within the law of Christ—to win over those outside the law. To the weak I became weak, to win over the weak. I have become all things to all, to save at least some. All this I do for the sake of the gospel, so that I too may have a share in it” (1 Cor 9:22-23).

I am aware that wearing a face mask is uncomfortable, but again, I appeal to everyone to consider this as a personal sacrifice in Christian charity for the safety of all of us within our parish family. To encourage use, face masks will be provided at the doors to the Church before Masses for those without one. Please feel free to use one and dispose of it after Mass.

Congratulations to our RCIA Candidates!

On behalf of the parish community, I congratulate our brothers and sisters in the RCIA program who will be receiving their Sacraments of Initiation this weekend. They have been eagerly waiting since the Easter Vigil, about two months ago, which was postponed due to the pandemic. I am grateful for their faithfulness and commitment to their preparation, as well as their patience during this uncertain period of time. My special thanks to the parents, sponsors and catechists who supported and guided them along this journey.

Solemnity of Corpus Christi

This weekend we celebrate the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, meaning the Body and Blood of Christ. Traditionally on this day, the Eucharist is honored by carrying the Blessed Sacrament in a solemn procession through the town, stopping several times for Benediction. This custom is still encouraged and practiced in many countries throughout the world. With the celebration of Corpus Christi, we now begin Ordinary Time of the Liturgical Calendar, which will last until the season of Advent in November. Please check the bulletin this weekend for my reflection on this Solemnity and for other information.

Lastly, here is a video by Bishop Barron on the “Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist” for your reflection this weekend.

I hope you find it helpful.

Thank you and Remain Blessed.

Fr James Aboyi, VC
Pastor

BACK TO LIST