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Pastor's Corner
April 1, 2020

Because the Annunciation fell on a Wednesday, I decided to write you again on a Wednesday. The first reading for today’'s Mass is Daniel 3:14-20, 91-92, 95. It is a powerful statement of complete trust in the True God and a steadfast refusal to worship a false god. The courage of the three young men in service to the king is admirable, almost incredible. This theme of courage and trust was central on St. Joseph’s Day and on the Annunciation. It certainly affirms us as we face the health issues and economic calamity of this pandemic in which we are embroiled.

Of course, the gifts of God to us and the joy that results from them are evident throughout Scripture. John 16 assures us in verse 22 no one will take your joy from you” and verse 33 reminds us that he has given us a joy and a peace to tap into that things like this pandemic cannot take away from us. Our faith offers us so much encouragement to reach deep into the Spirit-filled recesses of our being for joy and hope!

On March 20^th, the Apostolic Penitentiary published new guidelines for a plenary indulgence for those with the Coronavirus and those who care for them. It goes beyond previous norms for the reception of the indulgence. Check out the article on NCRonline by Joshua J. McElwee on March 26 for details. I cite just a few key lines here.

For persons near death from the virus and unable to receive the sacraments because of isolation measures, the decree says they can obtain the indulgence "at the point of death, as long as they have recited some prayers during their life."

Jeremy Wilkins, a theologian at Boston College, said he sees "something new" in the offering to those who are dying. "The conditions there are waived. It says ...the church fulfills the conditions for you," said the theologian. "That's quite amazing."

"It really is tender," said Wilkins, who has focused his work in the areas of Christology and grace. "I think the church very tenderly wants to say, 'Be sorry for your sins, and know that you're not alone, and it will be OK.' "

The perfection of God is mercy. The Church is the physical presence in our world of the Risen Christ, who is Mercy Incarnate. As St. Paul wrote to Timothy, “I know in whom I have trusted.” The Lord wants to tell us, “Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into your rest.” Maybe even more than we hope to hear it said to us!

Remember that when confession is not available, a fervent Act of Contrition results in God forgiving even the most serious of our sins.  A simple one from the Rite of Penance is, “Lord Jesus, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” Later one can mention the mortal sins in confession for honesty. When sacramental communion is not available, a spiritual communion should be made. The Holy Father recently reminded us of this using the same words I was taught in First Grade to say at Mass during Holy Communion, “Lord, I am not able to receive you now sacramentally.  Enter into my heart.  I embrace you as being already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never let me be separated from you.  Amen.”

Again, a practical note, if possible, please mail in or drop off at the office your donations to keep the parish afloat financially during this time. You can call and use a credit card over the phone. I was surprised to find out that the online service used for pledges during Forward in Faith is still operative for those who used it at that time.

Sincerest blessings,
Fr. Leo A. Dechant, CSJ
Pastor

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