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May 15, 2020My Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
I hope you are staying safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Be assured the priests of St. Joseph Catholic Church pray for you at Mass each day.
Recently I presided at two graveside services, both of which were COVID-19 related. Current restrictions did not allow for funerals, so we gathered in very small numbers at the graveside. Thankfully, we will be able to offer funeral Masses in accordance to the Archdiocesan guidelines at St. Joseph Catholic Church soon.
On May 13, 2020 I received a letter from Cardinal Cupich regarding a Multi-Phased Plan for Reopening Churches. I have forwarded this to the task force we established to assist in preparing for the reopening of our church. The task force will review the plan this weekend and will communicate with you in the coming week. Needless to say, it will take a great deal of preparation before we are able to reopen.
To safely begin gathering again, we will need to recruit and train several volunteers and I am asking you to consider helping in this way. Also, I will continue to explore with the Archdiocese the possibility of a drive-in Mass using our parking lot. I believe this would be an ideal option (provide comfort?) for those who are hesitant to enter our church with other people present.
The Cardinal's letter is attached. I welcome your opinions and suggestions. Finally, I invite you to join us at "Live from St. Joe's" at 7:00 pm every Friday evening beginning this evening.
Wishing you and your families the protection of our Blessed Mother.
In gratitude,
Fr. John Trout
Pastor
