November 29, 2020: First Sunday of Advent

Dear Parishioners:

Since November is the month that we emphasize a sense of thankfulness and gratitude, I wanted to use this week’s message as an opportunity to say thank you to all of you, who, one way or another, have kept this Parish running, and even thriving during this difficult year of 2020.  On September 13, 2020, I stressed my gratitude for all the Parishioners who have made the Parish what is over the past 125 years.  This time, I want to express my gratitude specifically for those of you who have helped keep the Parish and School going these past arduous months.

I am grateful for:

Those who have prayed for the health of all our Parishioners.

Those who have worked to keep our Parishioners safe, especially on the frontlines.

Those who have worked in the Parish Office, keeping the Parish operating.

Those who have supported the Parish with their prayers and notes of concern.

Those whose generosity have kept the Parish open and operating.

Those who have volunteered to clean the church in between Masses to keep it safe.

Those who have closely followed the directives so that we all remain safe.

Those who sign-up for Masses, even though it might seem so formal.

Those who have enabled us to get the live stream up and running.

Those who have kept the Parish’s programs running, even from a distance.

Those who work in the school under the most difficult conditions.

Those who have been so patient and understanding with changes that suddenly occur.

Those who continue to serve at the liturgies in different capacities.

Those who have continued teaching CCD under less-than-perfect conditions.

Those who had kept the church and school neat and clean and ready for reopening.

Those volunteers who reached out to the homebound to help with their needs.

Those who have continued to actively be part of the Parish even from a distance.

Those who helped completely fund the St. Cassian Pediatric Nutrition Center in just 2 months.

Those who continue to desire the Eucharist and look forward to when we can gather again as a Parish and celebrate having overcome this pandemic.

I am grateful to all of you and your witness to faith, endurance, hope, trust in the Lord and your dedication to St. Cassian Parish and School, even during these tough times.

I am grateful to all of you, St. Cassian Parishioners!

Happy Thanksgiving and blessings to all.

Fr. Marc A. Vicari,

Pastor