Wednesday, April 1, 2020
Greetings Parishioners and Friends of Saint Josephine Bakhita Parish,
This past week, I was absolutely humbled and inspired by a live event from the Vatican, in St. Peter Square, when Pope Francis offered, what is called an Urbi et Orbi (To the City and To the World) blessing of the People of God. It is a blessing usually reserved for Christmas day and Easter Day. However, this blessing was for an end to the pandemic.
It was an awesome, haunting and chilling event to watch. Pope Francis stood, alone, in the middle of the deserted square. It was a drizzling rain and the darkness of night was falling upon the scene. The prayer event was filled with gentle music, the Word of God, the Pope’s very inspiring words of comfort, encouragement and challenge and symbols of hope and faith. I was especially struck by the cauldrons of fire and incense rising in prayer to God.
Then quite dramatically he walked with difficulty (for he is having issues with his walking these days due to sciatica), yet, confidently into the foyer of the great St. Peter Basilica and prepared the Monstrance with the Body of Christ. Then tentatively, but with great purpose, stepped out into open air, once again, and solemnly blessed the entire world with the Eucharist.
If you get a chance, view the video of Pope Francis's hour of prayer for the world.
Click Here.
These are just a few of the amazing words of wisdom the Pope that evening that still send chills up my spine:
“Like the disciples in the Gospel we were caught off guard by an unexpected, turbulent storm. We have realized that we are on the same boat all of us fragile and disoriented but at the same time important and needed. All of us called to row together each of us in need of comforting the other.”
(see MK 4:35-41)
May we all stay together in prayer and hope during these days of isolation. Let us not forget we are sisters and brothers in Christ...all rowing together. I, along with some staff members, will be calling each home in the parish in the days ahead. It is our hope, by our simple call, to offer a word of comfort and prayer…to stay connected. Be assured we will not be a scam call.
Peace and blessings!
Fr. George Couturier
Palm Crosses
If you pre-ordered palm crosses from the Knights of Columbus, they will be available for pick-up on Saturday, April 4 from 9:00 AM - Noon in the parking lot behind St. James Church. Please remain in your car. All social distancing protocols will be used.
