Fr. Rick’s Pastoral Messages 12/16/2020

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Fr. Rick’s Pastoral Messages 12/16/2020

The past two weeks I asked you to consider in your Advent Reflections and Prayer the 7 Spiritual Works of Mercy as presented by the U.S. Council of Catholic Bishops. Listed below are 6 and 7. 

After each work of mercy there are also suggestions and words of advice for living them out in our daily lives.

BEARING WRONGS PATIENTLY

Do not be bitter about wrongs done against you.  Place your hope in God so that you can endure the troubles of this world and face them with a compassionate spirit. 

  • Frustrated with someone? Step away from the situation, take a few deep breaths, pray the Our Father, asking God for patience

PRAYING FOR THE LIVING AND THE DEAD

Prayer is one of the most powerful ways we can support others.  Joining together in prayer for the living and the dead entrusts us all into God’s care.

  • Request a mass intention for a friend or family member who is going through a tough time
  • Request a mass intention for a friend or family member who has passed away
  • Keep your own book of prayer intentions, writing down the names of those who you are keeping in your prayers
  • Ask a friend or family member if there is anything you can pray for them about
  • Through prayer, entrust your cares and concerns for those around you to God

Mourning our Losses

As you know, this past week in the United States we have passed the grim milestone of 300,000 Covid-related deaths.  The surge is unfortunately expected to continue as we enter the Christmas holidays.  Please continue to use the appropriate and recommended precautions when in public and at home.

Here at St. Christopher’s we will offer Mass each Friday especially for the repose of the souls of all who have passed away, for all those still critically afflicted and for the consolation of all their families and friends.  Of course our specially named intentions for the strength and safety of all our health care workers will continue at all daily Masses. (Friday, December 18 there will be a Communion Service rather than Mass).

SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION   Anyone wishing to receive the sacrament may call the office and make an appointment.  I can make myself very available with just a little notice.