Security – thank you to the Knights.
The brother Knights in both parishes have kept vigil to watch and guard our Churches in the night. I am immensely grateful to them. One of the Knights said to me: “Fr, I’m keeping watch to make sure you are protected, because they can burn the rectory, too. We can rebuild the Church but we don’t want to lose you.” Isn’t that a beautiful thing to say? I felt special and loved.
We have contracted a security company to patrol our Churches at night. We plan to install cameras in the coming weeks. Please do keep an eye on our properties when you pass by. Phone if you notice anything suspicious.
Be your brother/sister’s keeper – COVID-19 protocols in the Church
Though restrictions have been lifted for religious services, there are certain safety measures I’d ask us to still observe since we are not all fully vaccinated yet.
- Please sanitize your hands as you come into the Church.
- The health authority recommend that those 12years and above not fully vaccinated are to wear a mask. This is not mandatory but recommended.
- The extraordinary ministers of Communion will continue to wear masks when distributing Holy Communion.
- At St. Ann’s, we have long pews; let us take advantage of them and spread out during Mass. The choir loft will be available for anyone who wishes to maintain some distance from others and enjoy more personal space.
- At. John Vianney, the hall is open for anyone who wishes to enjoy more personal space while we worship. The hall looks splendid and you’ll feel you are right in the Church.
- For those that are not yet ready to attend Mass in the church, and who have attended Mass Virtually, there will be Holy Communion available at St. Ann’s from Noon to 12:15 on Sundays.
We are taking these measures because we want to be our brother/sister’s keeper.
Parishioners not on our contact list
Some of our parishioners are not on our contact list. As a result they may not be aware that we have reopened to full capacity. If you know of anyone especially our seniors who are not aware of full capacity reopening, please give them a call.
The attendance at Mass last weekend was amazing. Some Masses felt like a Christmas Mass. It filled my heart with great joy to see all our people. I sensed a great desire in the hearts of people to return to Jesus in the Eucharist. It’s been too long, someone said to me. I had tears of joy in my heart to be back in the Church. All I could say is: ‘I praise God who made it possible for us to gather again.’
I look forward to celebrating with you this weekend. Remain blessed….. stay cool…. God love you!
Your brother, ~Fr. Obi