On September 8th, the day after Labor Day, our parish will begin new weekday confession and Mass times. Our new schedule will be the same Monday through Friday: 8:00 a.m. Mass, 5:30 p.m. Mass, and confessions offered prior to the evening Mass 5:00 – 5:30 p.m. On Tuesday, when we have Eucharistic Adoration during the afternoon, Benediction will be at 5:15, in time for the 5:30 Mass.
Msgr. Jerry and I are excited for the new schedule and made the decision after prayer and discussion with other priests, the staff, and the Worship commission. We have made the decision for several reasons. First, and most importantly, we think that the new schedule with the evening Mass everyday will enable more parishioners, including families, to be able to come to Mass. Jesus promises us so much grace through the Eucharist and we want as many people as possible to receive that grace! We encourage everyone to consider coming to Mass once or twice during the week, which can be a great way to deepen your relationship with Christ. Second, regularizing the Mass schedule makes it much easier for people to plan if they know the Mass schedule is consistent. Third, Msgr. Jerry and I want to offer the Sacrament of Reconciliation every day, especially in light of the upcoming Year of Mercy that Pope Francis will begin on December 8th. The Sacraments are guaranteed moments of encounter with Jesus and we are committed to making the Sacraments as available as possible.
Msgr. and I do want to apologize to those who attended the 6:30 AM Mass before going to work, which will no longer be available. Please know that you were not forgotten during this process and we hope that you will be able to attend the evening Masses after work. The Church will still be open early, so if you want to stop in to pray on your way to work, you can certainly still do so.
We thank you all for your patience during the transition. We are honored to serve as your priests. May Jesus, especially through the Mass and Reconciliation, draw us closer to His Sacred Heart.
Fr. Gary