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March 25, 2020
+ Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord
Dear Friends in Christ,
All of you remain very much in my thoughts and prayers during this challenging time where many of our brothers and sisters throughout the world suffer from effects the Coronavirus (COVID-19). My heart goes out to those who have lost loved ones and those struggling with unhealth, economic uncertainty, and anxiety. For people of faith, it is important to especially remember those on the margins of society – the poor, the homeless, immigrants, and others who suffer from a lack of material and social needs. Sadly, the poor and vulnerable always suffer disproportionately in times of crisis and economic downturn.
Christians know by faith that the God of Jesus Christ who suffered out of love for us, is walking beside us and will never abandon us in our time of need.
Today, in this penitential season, Catholics celebrate with joy the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord. In the fullness of time, God’s offer of favor to Mary was greeted with her yes of faith. Thus, began the mystery of the Incarnation and a new chapter of grace for humanity. Our faith is not an abstraction or remote theory, but rooted in the truth and love of our incarnate Lord. This truth is a source of comfort for many at this time.
Last week, I provided parishioners information regarding our shared life together. I pledge to provide you weekly letters, albeit briefer than the first two. I am thankful to our staff and parishioners who are maintaining contact with parishioners in a variety of creative ways. I heard from many of you who were moved by the videotaped Mass last weekend as it provided solace and an important connection to our beautiful church and community of faith. Fr. Bryce’s message, the sacred music, and the production value were all of high quality. I thank all whose talent and faith made this happen! As long as we are able, we will continue to make available a videotaped Mass and also pledge that the Sunday Mass will continue to be celebrated for you – God’s people – just as it has been celebrated at Lourdes since 1877.
I would like to highlight a change to our confession schedule. Effective this weekend, the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be celebrated Saturdays, from 2:45 – 3:30 - outside, in the driveway to the courtyard. Many parishes have gone to this practice as it is a creative way to offer the sacrament, while also respecting the ongoing guidelines regarding social distancing. We will do our best to provide for anonymity and will have individuals present to direct the flow. I will update our community as to whether Governor Walz’ stay at home order or Archdiocesan guidelines will affect our ability to tape Sunday Mass or offer the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
I have some good news to share with all of you. Today, long-time parishioner Tom Johnson will be presented with the Our Lady of Lourdes -
Fleur de lis and Pope Francis awards. Like the late Ray Marshall, Tom is the only other parishioner to receive both awards. Tom’s contributions to Lourdes are immense: Tom and Victoria have been active parishioners for years; Tom skillfully represented the parish
pro bono to secure complimentary parking vouchers for Lourdes in perpetuity; Tom served on the Lourdes Advisory Committee that successfully reduced the size of the adjacent residential property; and Tom is an active member of the Lourdes’ Justice and Charity Committee, where he has moderated numerous panels, presented, and written articles on matters of faith and justice and restorative justice and healing. In awarding Tom the Pope Francis award, his advocacy for those on the margins of society, including the homeless, the poor, people of color, and victims of abuse has been life-long and determined. Congratulations to Tom Johnson! Other
Fleur de lis and Pope Francis award winners will be announced later this spring.
Lastly, I have decided to make my way back to Minnesota tomorrow. This is the right thing to do for many reasons and I look forward to being closer to parishioners, friends, and family - even as we shelter in place for the public good. Please keep me in your prayers for a safe journey.
More than two thousand years ago, the Angel Gabriel visited a young woman of faith with an extraordinary message – she was to be the Mother of God. Mary’s yes to God’s plan of restoration changed the fate of a fallen humanity. May we unite our yes to Mary’s fiat in this time of need and may the presence of Jesus be manifested to all through our lives of faith.
United in Christ,
Fr. Griffith
