Today I want to share two important things with you, which I hope bring you encouragement during this time.

First, a number of people have told me how God's been working in their life lately.  Using their responses, I posted two stories on our website that you can find by clicking the links below. I hope you enjoy them ~ please keep emailing me ways you've seen God at work!

• God's grace is at work in many ways during quarantine
• Jesus' healing power in the Eucharist

Second, both St. John the Evangelist and St. Joseph church buildings will reopen for private prayer beginning Friday, May 1st.  We're not yet able to celebrate public Masses, but are working toward that.

The following protocols are in place beginning Friday:

• The church buildings will be open for private prayer daily from Noon until 7:00pm.
• No other activities are allowed in the church building.
• It is required to wear a face mask inside the church.
• Restrooms are open, but please use the restroom and wash your hands at your home before coming.
• If possible, bring hand sanitizer or cleaning wipes to use before and after you sit down. Avoid touching your face.
• Keep at least six feet from other people.
• The maximum number of people allowed is one person at each end of a pew, skipping every other pew.
• Stay home if you're experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, difficulty breathing, chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell, or any other symptoms of illness.
• Stay home if you've been exposed to a case of COVID-19 or traveled to an affected area until you have completed your 14-day quarantine.
• Stay home if you've tested positive for COVID-19, until cleared by your doctor and test negative.
• Stay home if you're 65 or older.
• Stay home if you're at risk due to other health conditions.
• It's recommended that children under age 7 remain at home.

The Parish offices remain closed for business. Kevin Flohe will do his necessary work behind the closed office door. Items you want to give to Kevin can be placed in the mailbox. If you haven't yet, watch my video 5 things to expect moving forward.

We hope to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation with our high school and adult cadidates on Pentecost Sunday, May 31st. First Communion is still pending until we're able to gather again for Mass.

We'll continue to livestream Mass at 9:00am and 11:00am Sunday mornings right here at Ishpeming Catholic. See there a schedule of other weekly livestream broadcasts as well.

I'll continue to be available in the church parking lots at different times during the week to bless holy water, hear Confessions, and pray with you. Visit the Pastor's Page to see a schedule.  I'm available to meet other times as well.  Contact me at (906) 399-0553 or [email protected].

To read the full text of Bishop John's recent letter, click here.

God bless you!

Father Ryan