Dear Parishioners and Friends of the Church of the Holy Spirit:
I am writing to tell you that we are getting ready for the return of the Mass obligation the weekend of Pentecost (May 22-23). As you may know, that obligation was lifted as the COVID pandemic began to spread widely in our country in March of 2020. For two months that year, there were no public Masses at all. Now with the wide availability of the vaccines and other developments, the threat of serious illness, or even death, although still real, is much less. Throughout the past year, we have been able to have Mass and other services with relative safety to our health. Our school has been in session all year. Thanks in no small part to many people cleaning regularly, social distancing, and other measures, there seems to be even a marked reduction in colds and seasonal flu that has been reported here and other places. God has been good to us and we especially single out thanks to the Mother of God for her comfort and prayers for us, her children.
If you are just returning for the first time this weekend (or next), you are welcome to sit anywhere in the main section of the church without worrying about social distancing, especially if you are fully vaccinated. We will keep the “every other pew” and social distancing on the side sections, for those who are still concerned about possible health issues, at least for a while as needed. We have been able to accommodate all who have come so far, and this will continue. Pentecost Sunday (May 23) will be the last day we offer the 10 A.M. special Holy Communion service, but please let us know if you need the sacraments. We are hoping to restore Holy Communion to the sick at home soon.
Historians will write the story of our nation and our world and see things that we do not see now. I have already seen a great deal of grit and courage, and confident trust in the Lord. Our perpetual adoration program had people praying continuously in front of the Blessed Sacrament (with a few exceptions due to weather) all during this time. The Lord was always here with us and will continue to be here with us until the end of time. God bless you all!
Fr. Houlihan
