Pastor's message 3.22.2020

Dear Parishioners, now more than ever, we need to heed this simple and powerful prayer, “Jesus, I trust in you.” This is not simply for our own sake either, but for the sake of the people we will encounter. As the COVID-19 Pandemic continues to stir up uncertainty, fear and unrest among our community, state, nation and world, we need to spread the peace, hope, and joy of Jesus at an even more infectious rate! We first then need to deepen our own faith and trust in Jesus. It is time for us to increase our Lenten commitments to prayer, fasting and almsgiving and direct these efforts toward combating the anxiety and fear this pandemic is spreading. Let’s make time to reflect on the truth of our faith. Jesus is here with us and reminds us to ask for His help. Here at St. Mark, we have the church open* as a haven for prayer and encounter with Jesus, present to us in the Blessed Sacrament. He is truly here! Making dedicated time in prayer before Him will remind us that Jesus is guiding us and everyone toward eternal glory. We just need to listen, reach out and take His hand, live according to His Word, and then reflect this to others. A time like this is both a test of our faith and an invitation to evangelize others who are seeking hope. If we find ourselves caught up with fear and anxiety, then let’s bring it to Jesus in prayer and renew our trust in Him. Yes, this pandemic is being more urgently felt as it impacts our lives more directly now, but Jesus reminded us that times like this would come. Remember we are not living for this world...this world as we know it is passing away...we are to look forward to the glory that awaits us! This forward looking to eternal glory is what will continue to bring us peace, joy and hope amidst this trial, and enliven us to rejoice and spread this glorious news. Jesus is with us, cares for us and is ushering in His Kingdom. This is, has been and always will be the truth of our faith. Let’s live it with infectious belief, joy and hope!
- Father Dallas 

*PLEASE NOTE: Since this message was published, the church is no longer open.  In keeping with the governor’s order, Burlington Bishop Christopher Coyne has directed that all Catholic churches, chapels and shrines throughout the state be closed.