Happy Springtime! Yes, we made it through another winter, atypical by virtue of its mildness. Now we are in spring, atypical because of the Coronavirus. Personally, I would have preferred a severe winter and no virus. The current circumstances surrounding the Novel Coronavirus are truly remarkable and unprecedented, certainly in our lifetime. As Christians, we have concern for the physical health of our families, friends, and neighbors, and we also have concerns and obligations to pray and fast on behalf of all of those impacted by this pandemic. The virus appears to present serious health risk to those who happen to be among the most vulnerable-the elderly and those with compromised immune systems. Our Lord Jesus Christ called us to a particular concern for such brothers and sisters, when he said: "Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25:40)
 
ALMSGIVING: The Coronavirus is not only sickening us physically, but also financially. Many folks are out of work with their places of business shut down. The stock market will recover eventually, but no one knows when that will begin. Please remember that our parishes depend on your generosity and support.  With the cancellation of masses, our parishes have lost offertory collections that are essential to pay staff and bills for the maintenance of our churches.  When you feel like getting out of the house, just drop your envelope at the parish office. I appreciate your sacrifice. There is a drop box in the door of the rectory at St Lawrence. They may also  be mailed to the rectory at 1006 Collins Ave. Lawrenceville, IL 62439.

 
ANOINTING OF THE SICK AND RECONCILIATION: Fr. Brett and I remain committed to caring for the sacramental needs of the faithful, especially in a time of concern.  Please remember that, at this time, the Anointing of the Sick is reserved primarily for those in danger of death. Please call Fr. Mark at 618-841-7324 or Fr. Brett at 618-514-3820 to request the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.
 
CONFIRMATIONS AND FIRST HOLY COMMUNION: It is not possible even to begin planning for or rescheduling until there is clarity on when public gatherings will be allowed to resume.  I understand that the possible postponement of these sacraments of initiation is deeply disappointing to all involved.  We also appreciate the desire for clarity on the rescheduling, but it simply will not be possible to work it out at least for several weeks.  We beg for patience as this is sorted out, as all those involved are doing the best they can in times of uncertainty and unprecedented change and disruption.
 
NON-SACRAMENTAL PARISH ACTIVITIES: All non-sacramental parish activities are cancelled in the parish.
 
SCAMMING AND PHISHING: There are many who are trying to prey on our fears and our need to “do our part.” I myself have been receiving several e-mails for products that claim to prevent the coronavirus do not believe them. Fr. Brett and I are not traveling nor are we engaged of soliciting funds no matter how realistic or good the cause. We will not be asking for gift cards or money transfers. Do not fall victim to these requests no matter how legitimate sounding they are.
 
PRAYER FOR PROTECTION DURING THE CORONAVIRUS
 
O Mary, you shine continuously on our journey as a sign of salvation and hope.
We entrust ourselves to you, Health of the Sick.
At the foot of the Cross you participated in Jesus' pain,
with steadfast faith.
You, Salvation of the Roman People, know what we need.
We are certain that you will provide, so that,
as you did at Cana of Galilee,
joy and feasting might return after this moment of trial.
Help us, Mother of Divine Love,
to conform ourselves to the Father's will
and to do what Jesus tells us:
He who took our sufferings upon Himself, and bore our sorrows to bring us,
through the Cross, to the joy of the Resurrection. Amen.
We seek refuge under your protection, O Holy Mother of God.
Do not despise our pleas—we who are put to the test—and deliver us from every danger, O glorious and blessed Virgin.
Pope Francis