Message to Parishioners

 
I write regarding some updates to our Phase Two Mass schedule.  We learned a lot last weekend and are already prepared to make adjustments for this coming weekend. What a blessing it is to be able to come to Mass more frequently and we welcome you all. 
 
In my prayer two strong themes have come through from the Lord:  
With the help of Father Bill and our Task Force, I am trying to provide both of these important desires of the Lord.
 
Some Reminders (nothing new but still important)

• Archbishop Gregory has dispensed the obligation to attend Sunday Mass until further notice.  
• The health and safety of the parishioners at SJN is a priority.
• Please take care of your health and those around you.  If you are not feeling well, please do not attend Mass.   
• Masks in church are expected, please practice good hand hygiene, and consider taking communion in the hand.  
• Try and maintain 6 feet of distance, and please follow any directions of the Ushers.  

 
Seating:
Seating is still limited at this point. Plan to arrive early before Mass and please enter by the right-side door only.  
 
Daily Mass
There is no change to the daily Mass schedule.
No sign-ups required.
Communion offered after each Mass.
You are invited to listen to the Mass in the courtyard of the Adoration chapel.
 
Sunday Mass
We will continue to use a sign-up for Sunday Mass for the time being (but not forever). You will find the link to the sign-up to the right, or on our website.

For those technologically challenged:   If there are issues with using technology, please just come to any Mass and simply say, “I don’t have access to sign-ups”, and we will get you into Mass. (If you know someone that has technology issues, please let them know…they are probably not reading this…spread the word please and help. My mom, God rest her soul, would have never been able to sign-up, but I would have done it for her.).
 
The Sunday Mass Schedule
The Sunday Mass schedule will be similar to our normal Sunday Mass schedule with a few exceptions. Please read carefully.
 
Saturday Vigil: 5:00 PM
Sunday: 7:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM (Spanish)
The 5:00 PM Sunday Mass will temporarily be used for the various sacramental rites that were delayed.
 
Live Stream
Masses will continue to be live streamed and recorded to YouTube
Mon-Sat: 9:00 AM
Sunday: 9:30 AM, 1:30 PM (Spanish)
 
Communion Outside of Mass
For those that are not ready to come inside for Mass, (or were not able to find a convenient Sunday Mass to attend inside), Communion will be distributed after every Mass outside in the Adoration Chapel area until further notice (Daily and Sunday Masses).  The Mass can be heard on the speakers outside this area. 
 
Moreover, you are invited to come at the regular Mass time, listen to Mass (that is attend Mass), and receive the Eucharist afterwards. If you prefer to stay in your car, that is okay too. 
 
I wish we could have everyone back at Mass right now, but thanks be to God we have an opportunity to receive the Eucharist every day now and at every Mass at SJN (inside or outside), and we have increased the number of Mass times on Sundays, and increased the capacity for each Mass.  In addition, we have an adoration chapel where the Blessed Sacrament is reserved 24/7. I pray this growth continues.
 
Special Needs or Problems
If you are having any problems, or you have any special needs, you can contact me personally to discuss.  There is always a solution, so don’t hesitate to ask.
Contacting me via email is best - [email protected].

A Word of Thanks
In order to accomplish the reopening of Masses a lot of volunteers and workers are needed and the organization is more laborious than one might think.  We still have a long way to go, but I want to thank all of you for your prayers and those who have written so many kind words of encouragement during these challenging times, as well as all who have donated financially to the parish. Thank you! I want to especially thank those who have volunteered their time, and those who have exhibited such tremendous trust and patience during a very challenging first year of my pastorate here at SJN (yes, I am staying another year…I had to beat Fr. Regan at least).  Thank you and may God Bless you!

For some, this has been a very challenging time and it continues to be.  Know God loves you and wants to give you much grace and peace.  Keep turning to Him and find more time for prayer. Look to the Blessed Mother for consolation and guidance. She is your good mother and is there for you.
 
I look forward to informing you about more ways we are beginning to open the Church in the coming weeks.

In Christ,

Msgr. Robert Panke