I have been surprised by how often the question of the Church and politics has been coming up lately. It is unfortunate that much of what we do has acquired political significance. Too often, certain words or phrases lead us to stop listening prematurely to what people are saying and jump to conclusions that are far from accurate. Following Jesus should involve an ongoing transformation of the whole of one's life. Giving our everything about ourselves to Christ will certainly have consequences in how we fulfill our duties as citizens. Indeed, our faith should inform, shape, and correct our political views. 

What should the mission of the Catholic Church look like in Grant County? A bulletin note will only allow me to give a brief summary that may need further elaboration.

We appreciate your patience over the last few months as we have made changes related to COVID-19. This news story has information about the changes starting this Sunday and next week. Please take a moment to review it. The "Moving Forward with Faith' page of our website has been updated as well.

We continue to move forward with plans for establishing a post-COVID-19 normal in our parishes. Nearly all of my decisions on this topic are an attempt to adhere to Bishop Doherty's decree laying out a roadmap for re-opening. In Church language, a decree indicates a specific direction from a superior to a subject that is to be obeyed. Every priest promises obedience at his ordination to the bishop ordaining him and that bishop's successors. In the Catholic Church, a pastor is primarily in sales, not management.