March 26, 2020

Dear Parishioners and Friends of Holy Cross, The Lord is always with us and we should not doubt that he is with us now in this time of unprecedented disruption in our lives. It may be difficult to feel confidence because of our separation from each other and because we cannot gather to celebrate the Eucharist. However, our Faith keeps us united to the Lord and to one another.

I do miss seeing you! I miss seeing families coming to Mass together and the joyful sound of the congregation singing hymns to the Lord. I miss seeing the happy faces of our children in the classrooms and in church. Although I know that this tribulation will eventually pass, we cannot deny our present distress.

Of course, we should also remember that God is bringing about good even when we don’t yet perceive it. Being quarantined may mean spending more time with family members. Having children, high school youth and college students all together as well as spouses working from home may be a challenge, but it can also be fun. It could lead to new understanding and patience. A friend of mine received a message from her cousin in Italy saying that since her family is confined together, “sometimes we fight but we get over it and we are learning to appreciate each other more.”

We can’t forget those who are isolated at home by themselves. Missing the usual contacts and routines of daily life, many find this isolation particularly difficult. Our elderly parishioners are even more vulnerable. As a parish family we want to care for them and others. Do continue to check on your friends and neighbors.

We certainly appreciate those who have been concerned with our welfare at the rectory. Fr. Perkins and Fr. Mathias are still here and doing well. You may send messages to us here at the rectory to stay in touch or ask questions by phone at 301-942-1020. If there is a problem or need that our Social Concerns Committee can help with, please let us know. Use my email address: pastor@hcrosschurch.org or leave a voicemail on the phone at 301-942-1020.

It looks more and more like we may not be together for Easter. Schools will not return to the classrooms until the end of April. Our candidates preparing for the Easter Sacraments and our children preparing for First Communion and Confirmation are waiting anxiously for new dates. But be confident that God will supply. He will not disappoint those who long for communion with him. Meanwhile, we will attempt to keep you informed through Flocknotes.

Coming through a crisis together will strengthen all of us. As we reach out to others, offering words of encouragement and acts of kindness, God’s Love shines in us. When it comes to Christian fellowship, it is true that “absence makes the heart grow stronger.” When we are together again, may we all appreciate each other more and never take the gifts we have received for granted. May Christ Jesus, renew us each day in his Love.

Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Robert
Pastor

Parish & Finance Council Letter: March 26, 2020