Dear Parish Family,

As Jesus announced after rising from the dead, “Peace be with you.”

Many people in our community are hurting and struggling to find the proper way to respond to the matters affecting immigrants and public safety in our state and country. In November, the United States Council of Catholic Bishops convened and issued a special message expressing foundational concern for the human person. Following that plenary assembly, on January 20, Archbishop Hebda wrote that he strives to "minister to immigrant parishioners who are fearful of driving their children to school or shopping for groceries, regardless of their legal status. [As well as serving] those who feel abandoned by leaders who have seemed more interested in political posturing than in protecting their communities. The church can’t choose one flock over another."

In the spirit of solidarity, Mary Mother continues to work with local services like Open Door, Loaves and Fishes, and 360 Communities. Guided by the principle of subsidiarity, we entrust each organization with the ability to provide specialized support to those in need. The pastoral outreach services we continue to offer at Mary Mother remain well-supported and will adapt as needed to fulfill requests. At this time, our pantry is well-stocked, Stephen Ministers remain ready to serve, our diaper ministry supports young families, Meals at Mary Mother serves those in need, and a number of other outreach efforts remain available. Our Pastoral Outreach Coordinator, Janet Gorshe, remains committed to stewarding the generosity of our community through these programs. We will let you know if new specific needs arise.

What can you do? Remember all the faithful of every time and place gather for Mass each Sunday around the world in every language and every culture. As we do on Sundays, we can also extend that prayer into our daily lives and pray that all remain rooted in God's peace and care for the dignity of each person in our community. Consider offering extra time in adoration to invite God's grace into our parish, county, state and nation. As well, there are many organizations that have been, and continue to, serve in and around the area, please support them how you feel most moved. Additionally, if you know someone for whom you are concerned, reach out to support them personally and ask how you can help.

We as Christians, as Jesus said, are leaven in the world, and a light in the world. Therefore, in the days and weeks ahead, let us bring the peace the world cannot give into every situation we find ourselves.

From all of us on your parish leadership team, in Christ, under the Mantle of Mary,

Fr. Jim Perkl,

Pastor