Public Masses Suspended through April 5th, 2020
Bishop John has dispensed all from the Sunday obligation and suspended public Masses through April 5th, 2020.  Right now, before the virus has really spread, is the best time to have everyone "hunker down," to "home cloister," and to keep those most vulnerable safe from the virus. (HERE is the most recent letter from Bishop John).   

Be Not Afraid! 
Like Bishop John, I want to emphasize we're changing our behavior not out of fear, but out of love for the most vulnerable.   Jesus always tells us not to be afraid, but wise choices, based on real risks, are called for now.  Jesus is inviting us to cloister.

Not 'unprecedented'
The closing of businesses, public venues, and the suspension of public Masses also occured in the U.S. in 1918 during the Spanish flu epidemic.  I also think of the 70 years the Jewish people spent in exile in Babylon, and times in Church history and even today in different parts of the world, where the faith has to be preserved and fostered in the family and homes because public worship was forbidden.  There are examples in Church history of the desert fathers and mothers and various Saints and monks who fasted 40 days from the Eucharist in Lent to prepare themselves for an even more worthy reception of the Eucharist at Easter.  In God's Providence, he's allowing this time so we can turn our hearts ever more fully to the things that matter most, and truly deepen our love for God and neighbor.

Be Wise!
I implore you to take this seriously, and follow the recommendations of the CDC and government health authorities.  This virus is like nothing we have seen in a hundred years, and we need to take it seriously.  We're called to pray, and to act wisely, so that our community will continue to be able to minister faithfully in Christ's name.  This article is very helpful in understanding the need for  SOCIAL DISTANCING . 

Help for those "Cloistering at Home." 
If you are in need of assistance during this time of "cloistering," or are willing to help out (if you're under 60 and available and willing to do so) please contact Angela Johnson . If you are in need of help, go HERE to request assistance .  I'm grateful that men and women have already been in contact with those who are over 70 to extend offers of help.  We also want to be able to serve others who may have needs, of which we are unaware.  We're also hoping to be able to find ways to safely distribute Holy Communion to those who are opting to stay home.  Thanks to all who are going to help with this important ministry!

Prayer as a family
There are numerous resources to pray together as a family.  I highly recommend the Laudate app, which can be found on any app store.  It has the daily Mass readings, reflections, and Saint of the day biographies.  I also recommend the online Magnificat as a helpful resource.  There are great Rosary apps to help you pray the Rosary as a family.  Bishop John asks us to pray the Rosary daily for the ill and all health care workers. 

Keep Connected
I plan to keep in contact with you via posts on our Facebook page  as well as on this page.  Check both for regular posts.  You can also subscribe to the Ishpeming Catholic Podcast  where I will have a weekly episode.