Being our best in this pandemic (Pentecost homily)

So, what’s on our mind this Pentecost?

Well, you and I have made a lot of adjustments, with more to come.
Even though we are finally back in church,
as you can see, we are keeping lots of pews empty, 
and I’m asking lots of you to come to Mass, not on Sunday, 
but during the week.  
I don’t like that, but it’s simply being practical. 

That’s why we created the “Show of Hands” sign-up 
which you can access online. 
This is just so all of can see which Masses 
are likely to have “traffic jams,” 
and maybe you will want to shift around to lessen that.

Several times each week, the ushers will be wiping down 
the pews with disinfectant. 
We don’t need to do it after every Mass, because in many cases, 
there’s enough time between, say, Mass on Sunday, at 11, 
and then Monday, at 7 pm, for any germs to die. 

But for example, from Monday evening to Tuesday morning, 
not enough time; so we’ll wipe the pews on Monday evening, 
and again on Wednesday – twice – 
and then between Masses on Saturday and Sunday. 

If you want to help, just check in at the sacristy after Mass.
That would be great if you can do that. 
And to emphasize, I just told you Monday Mass is now at 7 pm
as is Wednesday evening Mass. Friday morning Mass is now at 7 am.
This gives more options for more to come during the week. 
For Holy Communion, we’ll have someone in front, and someone in back, 
distributing the Holy Eucharist. The ushers will guide you. 
Those of us who are distributing the Eucharist 
will have a dish of disinfectant so that we avoid transmitting germs.

Next Sunday, June 7, at the 11 am Mass, is First Communion. 
Obviously the church will be nearly full, so please plan accordingly.

By the way – in all this we’ve been dealing with, 
you, the people of St. Remy, have been WONDERFUL. 
I know all this change is not easy. 
No doubt everything wasn’t explained enough and was confusing,
and it’s certain we didn’t get everything right.

But you have been flexible and understanding and prayerful, 
and for that, I THANK YOU. And, forgive me, 
but we’ll need your patience to continue, again thanks! 

Meanwhile so many challenges are before us. 
Many of our fellow citizens have died, and we’re not out of the woods. 
Lots of people are on the front lines, whether in health care, 
or public safety, or in keeping food and other essentials flowing.
They deserve our thanks and our help. 
Most people have taken a financial hit, some very badly. 

On the other hand: there’s so much to be thankful for. 
A few months ago, there was dread and dire predictions.
Thank heaven the worst we feared did not happen! 

Step by step, ordinary human life is resuming, and we all want more,
even as we each do our part to protect and help 
those who are vulnerable or have been hit hard 
by this epidemic and the fallout from it.

And remember: you and I are not powerless! 
Even when we were not able to be at Mass TOGETHER, Mass continued, 
and that is not a small thing. 
The Holy Mass is the most powerful force in the universe. 
I say that because Mass is the action of Jesus, 
and what power can even approach his? 
So we are not afraid!

Times like these bring out both the worst in people, but also the best. 
Lots of people reacting badly, 
but also, lots of people being calm and courageous and generous.

Which all leads to the main – and a really simple – point:

What makes the difference? The answer is the Holy Spirit! 
He is at work in our prayers, in our patience and courage, 
our good humor and generosity. 
If we don’t listen to the Holy Spirit, 
that is when bitterness and fear begin to grow. 
Our task is to heal and build, not to tear apart. 
Who would have guessed a big debate would be over…wearing masks?

Again, times like these bring out both the best in us and the worst. 
What does the Holy Spirit want? What do you want?