Let the Peace of Christ Rule in Your Hearts – Colossians 3:15  

The new coronavirus has proven to be very contagious, bringing with it a confusing storm of fear, misinformation, and anxiety.  What does the future hold?  How worried should we be?  How bad is it going to get? 
However, although it is necessary to plan, we must not lose sight of the One who can deliver us from every evil and keep us safe from all distress.  Thanks be to God; we have access to a confidence and peace that the world cannot give.  That is what I want to emphasize at the outset for everyone in the parish – Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday, today, and forever, and in Him we have nothing to fear.  Keep your eyes focused on Christ and be secure in the hope that He offers us through His resurrection.  He has opened to us a world where there is no pain, suffering, fear, or anxiety, where for all eternity we will be able to enjoy the infinite bliss of knowing our Creator.  He has reconciled us to the living God, He forgives us our sins, and He offers the gift of His own life, the Holy Spirit.  I pray that in these confusing times God would bless us anew and pour out His healing grace on everyone.
     Moreover, while maintaining our connection to the Lord, we also need to be safe and do everything we can to combat the spread of COVID-19.  Therefore, in following the guidelines of our government and the leading experts, the Diocese of Victoria is implementing strict policies of social distancing through the end of March.  As the bishop states in his decree, “[Not only Masses but a]ll scheduled events in our parishes are also cancelled, so as to protect the faithful from possible infection. This includes Penance Services, Stations of the Cross, RCIA, religious education classes, adult formation classes and any and all other liturgical gatherings, meetings and activities.”  Even if you do not feel sick or you are young and healthy, you can still be a carrier.  Help us fight against COVID-19 by washing your hands regularly, staying home, and keeping your distance.
   Lastly, in order to support everyone spiritually, we will be developing a resource to help you pray along with the Mass at home and stay united to everyone in the parish and diocese.  Even though regularly scheduled Masses will be canceled, and the Sunday obligation lifted for Catholics in the Victoria Diocese, our priests will be required to celebrate Mass without the congregation.  This Mass I will offer every day for the parishioners of Our Lady of Sorrows and Santísima Trinidad.
May God bless you and keep you,     Father Jacob Koether