Dear Friends in Christ,
The above quote from Pope Francis comes from one of the best, brief reflections I have ever read on the mystery of the Assumption. Be sure to check it out in the link below. I also want to highlight two other links. Please read the Pope’s remarks yesterday on the pandemic. Very worthwhile. And don’t miss the video presentation entitled “Hope in Mercy” by Fr. Michael Gaitley. I have also included brief videos of two of our seminarians offering words of encouragement as part of the 2020 Seminarian Appeal. Enjoy. Please pass these links along to others.
Please continue to pray for our school children, parents, teachers, administrators and pastors as we approach the start of the new school year. There has been so much uncertainty regarding schools, and the landscape seems to change almost daily. We are grateful to all who have been working so hard to stay abreast the changes and plan for the well-being and education of our children in the midst of so many unknowns. Your dedication is truly amazing. Thank you!
Archbishop Sample
Archbishop Sample is taking a few days of vacation this week. Please continue to pray for him, especially that he is refreshed and renewed by a little time away.
Livestream Schedule
NEW! Pope on Mary’s Assumption
This is the best, brief reflection on the mystery of the Assumption I have ever read. As we prepare to celebrate the Queenship of Mary this Saturday, don’t miss Pope Francis’ remarks on the Solemnity of the Assumption. Pope Francis: Angelus Address – Assumption of the BVM
Pope on Pandemic
This is another great reflection by Pope Francis. A bit longer, but worth the read. “The pandemic is a crisis, and we do not emerge from a crisis the same as before: either we come out of it better, or we come out of it worse.” Don’t miss this reflection from Pope Francis’ General Audience yesterday. He points to Matthew 25 as a key criterion of Christian authenticity.
Hope in Mercy
“Mercy…is the kind of love that comes down to the lowest place, enters into our messiness and doesn’t leave. It’s the kind of love that remains solid as a rock and something that may be the only thing permanent amid a chaotic and hectic world.” Fr. Michael Gaitley, MIC, has done some wonderful things in recent years to promote the message of Divine Mercy. Carve out a little time to check out this 35 minute video which pays dividends as it goes. It was filmed to address the “chaos and the craziness” in the world and the Church right now. Hope in Mercy.
Seminarians Offer Encouragement
As part of the 2020 Seminarian Appeal, our seminarians are offering words of encouragement. Check out these short video.
Most Recent Policy Updates
- Masks Required for Singers & Musicians (Aug. 13)
- Keep Attendance Records for Gatherings (Aug. 13)
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Most Recent FAQ Policy Update: August 13 MEMO
Next Mailing: Tuesday, August 25.
May the Queen of Heaven and Earth bless you and your families and loved ones.
Sincerely in Christ,
Todd Cooper
COVID-19 Pastoral Center Response, Core Team Chair
Key Pastoral Resources
REMINDERS
Accessibility
During the COVID pandemic, please keep in mind the mobility needs of your parishioners, and ensure the church entrance is physically accessible for them! Remember that a person with a physical disability may not be immunocompromised. Contact Kelsey Bell for assistance – kbell@archdpdx.org or 503-233-8399.
Racism
The Catholic Sentinel published a two-part series on racism toward Black Catholics.
Beirut Recovery Efforts
Please consider supporting relief efforts in Beirut. See this USCCB MEMO.
The National Catholic Register posted this ARTICLE on Catholic agency aid to Beirut.
August 31, 2020
Reopening Resources
