Still time to assist diocese’s mission by mail, Internet

As the coronavirus continues to affect our lives, it seems we are living in a new world each month. There has been a significant decline of COVID-19 related deaths and hospitalizations in our state yet increases in other states have left many of us to question when will there be normalcy again. Or is this the “new normal?”

Fortunately, within the past month, we Catholics have started to take steps not to a “new normal” but to a return of something we have longed for since COVID-19 caused a lockdown of schools, businesses, and even churches. Parishes throughout our diocese have unlocked their doors and taken the first steps to letting parishioners return for Mass, and despite restrictions they are coming back. This could not have happened at a better time. I have heard from so many of our parishioners how they yearned for the physical sacraments during the time gatherings were suspended. With all of the current tension in the world the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Blessed Sacrament is what people need right now. 

Whether one attends Mass physically or virtually now is the time for personal reflection on what faith and parish community mean. Without question, we have changed spiritually as individuals and as faith-filled communities. So, we are all challenged to consider our own responsibility to the wider community as Disciples of Christ. A parishioner said it best in a conversation we recently had together, “We want to share what God has blessed us with because there are many people in need right now.”

The 2020 Bishop’s Annual Appeal is at 97 percent of its $7.2 million goal. Thank you to all those individuals and families that have generously supported our efforts to date. Collectively, our individual sacrifices come together to reach one common goal; that is to advance the presence and mission of our faith, in order to bring Christ to those that need him the most.

There is still time to join us in our efforts. Please consider a gift to this year’s appeal. Through prayer and reflection, consider a gift of sacrifice by giving to the best of your means. With so many people negatively impacted by COVID-19 it is important to bring people the opportunity to be a part of this mission, our faith and the work of God. There is still opportunity to participate by responding to the most recent mailing or by making an online pledge at https://diometuchen.org/ways-to-give.

 Please know we are praying for the safety of you and your loved ones as well as all impacted by the pandemic. Prayer intentions can be sent at: https://diometuchen.org/prayer-intention.

Smith is director, diocesan Office of Development and Stewardship