Pastoral letter from Fr. Suresh

Dear Friends,

The impact of this kind of global crisis extends far beyond the sickness itself. When the rest of the world is afraid and loses hope, Christians can still bring the life and love of Jesus Christ to a sick and dying world by seeking out accurate information from medical organizations and only sharing facts and truthful information, not more hysteria or misinformation through social media or word of mouth; by looking to Him for peace, power, our answers, our protection, and our hope.  Faith can be an antidote to fear, and nothing strengthens a believer’s faith like the promises of God. Remember…do not fear, for I am with you. (Is 41:10)

We can pray for an end to the virus’ spread, for Government and church leaders, for the vulnerable, for the spirit of generosity, posture of trust, and spread of the gospel. Scripture teaches us that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and self-control (2 Tim 1:7). Pray for enduring faith during this season of heightened fear, anxiety, and confusion. Appropriate precautions should be taken, but Christians must continue to rely on God and trust His purposes and plans (Rom. 8:28).

As Pastor of St. Croix Parish, I invite you to encourage one another in the family to apply all preventive practices, engage in family prayers, and draw near to God. When visiting the church on weekends, write down your prayers / intentions on the bulletin board. When watching mass on television, seek for spiritual communion with Christ. Feel free to call 466-6018 for communion at home and for special prayers on phone. The church will be open on weekends at regular mass times for private prayers, and with proper preparations you can receive communion. I am praying for all of you in my private mass.

May God the Father protect you, the Son nourish you, and the Holy Spirit strengthen you. Amen.

Fr. Suresh Savariraj