We are facing a crisis like none other in our lifetimes.  Many people are afraid, we see the Stock Market crashing.  We hear stories about this virus becoming a worldwide pandemic. Everything around us is shutting down including our churches.  People are hoarding food, cleaning supplies, and tissue.  Where do we turn and how do we face this national crisis?

In our lifetime we have faced other seemingly overwhelming challenges and have come through it.  Do you remember Y2K?  People were acting much the way they are now by hoarding food and supplies, some went as far as building bomb shelters because we were afraid that nuclear missiles might launch at the stroke of midnight on January 1, 2000.  There was panic and even violence in our communities. But as the New Year dawned the planes did not fall out of the skies, missiles did not launch and after people recovered from their Armageddon headaches life resumed as it had been. Then there was September 11, 2001. For the first time we witnessed a massive terrorist attack in our country.  More than 3,000 people died, the Stock Market crashed, people were afraid, and for a month the churches were full on Sundays.  In every crisis, we as a people have met it and have overcome. Now we face a virus that is potentially deadly.  I urge you to take every precaution to avoid coming into contact with the Covid-19 virus.  Follow the CDC guidelines, eat healthy meals, wash your hands thoroughly, practice social distancing and avoid crowds whenever possible.

That having been said “social distancing” does not mean being socially distant.  During these difficult times we need to be there for one another. Is there a neighbor who is need of assistance?  An elderly person who needs something from the store?  A sick friend who could use a home cooked meal?  While we are being told to remain a safe distance from others physically we are not being told to be distant from them socially.  These are times to come together not to be disconnected. Together we will get through this crisis.

It is also during these trying times that we need to connect with our faith.  I regret that we have been mandated to close down the church but in the long run it is the responsible thing to do.  At the first possible moment we will be resuming mass and other church activities.  In the meantime continue to pray and celebrate the Easter mysteries in your hearts and in your homes.  Please continue to monitor the Tri-Parish website and Facebook page.  If you are able to continue making your Sunday offering, please do so as we have a number of bills to pay.  I also want to extend the offer that if anyone needs assistance please contact me.  We will handle your situation with confidentiality.

God bless and continue the good fight.

Rev. Ron Neitzke