This week we celebrate the Feast of the Annunciation, a story about Mary of Nazareth responding to her call to become the Mother of God. Even with fear, confusion and uncertainty Mary was open to God working in the circumstances of her life. Pope Francis caught this spirit well in the prayer to Mary cited in last week’s Pastor’s corner. Let’s keep praying with the patroness of our parish to intercede for us during this time of “social distance”, a penance more demanding than most of which we choose ourselves.
In many ways social distance contradicts the call of the Gospel for us to gather and grow as a community in solidarity around our Eucharistic Savior. Yet in many ways, both simple and profound, we are being challenged to be attentive, aware and Eucharist for each other. What an appropriate way to journey together through this most extraordinary Lent.
We are learning that, “things can get worse before they get better”. “Social Distance” and its implication for our everyday life and livelihood become gradually clearer. Prayers rise up not only for those inflicted by the virus, but also for those affected by unemployment and economic losses. Let us keep our civic and business leaders in prayer as they make efforts to come to our aid in responding to the pandemic crisis.
Our Immaculate Conception/St. Jude Community is also impacted by the necessary social distance we must keep. One challenge we face is to keep the sense of “Community” without the ability to attend regular mass. There are prayer services and masses that are being streamed by our own parishioners and diocesan clergy, as well as other churches throughout the country. Links to these can be found on our website and Facebook page. Continue to check these for updated links to information.
While masses have been suspended; financial obligations have not. Daily costs to maintain our parish buildings and compensate staff continues. Some parishioners have asked how they can continue their weekly offertory through this crisis. We offer the convenience of online giving, which can be accessed through our parish website (Online Giving). You may also mail payments to the parish post office box (P.O. Box 345, Elkton MD 21922) or directly to the parish office (455 Bow Street, Elkton MD 21921). The economic impact of this pandemic will hurt some households greatly. Thanks to those who continue to provide financial support and thanks also to those who continue prayerful support. If you are able to still give any amount, it would be a blessing.
We are not in this alone. Jesus abides with us. That is why we need community and prayer. That’s how we’ll get through. This health crisis, rather than weakening our bonds of faith, is demonstrating that It’s much stronger than we know, and our faith will be stronger coming out of this.
May God be Praised!
Fr. Jim Yeakel, OSFS, Pastor