All public masses and CCD classes are suspended until further notice. there will be masses streamed on CTV and the Diocese website and social media pages. Please read the Bishop's letter below.

March 12, 2020

Bishop Bambera's Letter to the Faithful regarding Suspension of all Public Masses March 16, 2020

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Effective immediately, and until further notice, I have suspended the celebration of Masses open to the public and all public gatherings in all diocesan parishes, worship sites, college campuses, chapels and health care facilities in the eleven counties of the Diocese of Scranton.

Churches of the Diocese will remain open daily for individual private prayer. The timeframe for each parish is to be determined by its pastor or parish life coordinator. The dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass during this time remains in effect.

Scheduled sacramental celebrations such as weddings, baptisms or funerals will be permitted, but attendance will be limited to immediate family members and follow any guidelines established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The sacraments of the Anointing of the Sick and Reconciliation will be available, when requested individually, by the faithful in cases of serious need.

It deeply saddens me to take this temporary action, knowing the depth of your faith and your desire to celebrate the Holy Eucharist on a regular basis. In light of continued concerns surrounding COVID-19, and upon the advice of medical experts, it is clear that we, as a faith community, must do our part in order to help slow the spread of this virus.

The number of faithful souls who filled our churches this past weekend, even with the dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass, was deeply consoling to me. As you always have, so many of you are turning to your faith as the surest place where we will find God’s peace, consolation and hope.

Unfortunately, the presence of such great numbers of worshippers in our churches is not serving our efforts to help mitigate the spread of the Coronavirus. In an effort to prevent overwhelming our hospitals and health care facilities, national, state and local leaders have urged people to avoid large gatherings of people and keep appropriate social distancing from one another.

As your bishop, in addition to the care of souls, the safety and health of all of our faithful parishioners, friends and those we welcome through our outreach and service, is of utmost importance to me. As such, the decision that I have announced, while difficult, is the best way for us to work together to serve the common good of all, both in our parishes and in our communities.

During these challenging times, it is also crucial that we not forget who we are as Christians. May we continue to offer, in whatever way we can, care and concern for those who are most vulnerable, including the poor, our senior citizens and those who are ill. I also urge those who can do so to maintain support for your parishes during these difficult days in order to sustain the ministries and outreach services for parishioners and those most in need.

Despite the suspension of public Masses, a private Mass will be celebrated daily in the Cathedral of Saint Peter in Scranton, and made available on CTV: Catholic Television of the Diocese of Scranton. On weekdays, the Mass will be broadcast at 12:10 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. On weekends, the Saturday Vigil Mass will be broadcast at 4:00 p.m. and rebroadcast on Sunday morning at 10:00 a.m. The Masses will also be streamed on the Diocese of Scranton’s website (www.dioceseofscranton.org), made available on the Diocese of Scranton’s social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) and will be accessible on the Diocese of Scranton’s YouTube channel.

Additional resources for individual parishioners to deepen their faith during Lent are also available on the Diocese of Scranton’s website.

During this sacred season of Lent, we are being asked to sacrifice more than ever before – particularly with the loss of cherished religious practices, most especially the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. May we do so mindful of the selfless sacrifice of Jesus and for the sake of our brothers and sisters who are most vulnerable and in need of our help.

The Diocese of Scranton continues to monitor the rapidly evolving health situation regarding the coronavirus. We are constantly monitoring directives from national, state and local officials. This policy will be reassessed on a regular basis, in addition to the plans for Holy Week and Easter.

God bless you and keep each of you in His care. Let us continue to pray for one another.

Faithfully yours in Christ,
†Joseph C. Bambera
Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L.
Bishop of Scranton

Masses: Sunday 8 am, 12 Noon

Monday - Saturday 8 am, 12 Noon, 7 pm Rosary: Sunday - Saturday 7:30 am/P>

Stations of the Cross - Fridays 7 am & 4 pm Comcast - Channel 12 & Channel 1668 (HD) for EWTN and CTV/P>

Directv - Channel 370 for EWTN - CTV not available./P>

Parishioners that do not have Comcast can view through websites./P>

Dish Network - Channel 261 for EWTN - CTV not available. Parishioners that do not have Comcast can view through websites./P>

You can also watch live at www.ewtn.com/tv or www.DioceseaOfScranton.org, then click on media tab.

The latest bulletin will be available at the back of the churches.

Sunday, March 29, 2020 Fifth Sunday of Lent

Ezekiel 37: 12-14

Romans 8: 8-11

John 11: 1-45

At the death of his dear friend Lazurus, Jesus accompanied by his disciples, comes to the tomb. "Take away the stone." But Jesus, surely there will be a stench." How often we avoid naming and addressing the dark, death-dealing consequences of our lack of love. "Take away the stone" Jesus says, "untie him and let him go free."

This week, in this strange and challenging Lent, we are called to pull off the band-aid, risk the stench, honestly look at those places in our hearts requiring our attention and the grace of God to be free. Live in the light of Christ. Live in the freedom of the children of God. Free from fear to the trust and hope, knowing that we are not alone in these moments of anxiety and isolation, that while apart, we are one Body in Christ the Healer. Being united as a Catholic community while apart from each other.

As more Catholics around the world find themselves unable to receive the Eucharist due to the coronavirus pandemic, Pope Francis provided an example of a spiritual communion prayer that can be said from home.

"My Jesus, I believe that you are present in the Most Holy Sacrament of the altar. I love You above all things, and I desire to receive You into my soul. Since I cannot at this moment receive You sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart.I embrace You as if You were already there and unite myself wholly to You. Never permit me to be separated from You," Pope Francis prayed March 21st in his televised daily Mass from his residence in Vatican city.

The coronavirus outbreak is stirring up anxiety, confusion and major inconveniences. It is a situation in which we can easily overreact or underreact. How can our faith tradition guide and comfort us through this troubling time?

ENOUGH FOR EVERYONE- Of course, we see these same dynamics play out in Scripture, where fear leads to hoarding. The most famous story is when the Israelites are in the desert without food (Exodus 16). God rains down manna from heaven but also cautions them to take only what they need for now. They disobey but find that the food they attempt to store away goes bad immediately. The consistent message we hear in the Bible is that we need to trust in God, who will provide enough for everyone. The problems come when people begin to take more than they need.

Fear of the coronavirus has cause some to stockpile and hoard unreasonable amounts of hand sanitizer, face masks and other supplies against the recommendations of leaders. The problem is that this wipes out supplies for those who truly need them the most-health care workers and those most vulnerable to the disease- without really making the buyers safer.

PROTECT THE VULNERABLE- Scripture and the social teachings of the church remind us again and again that we-as individuals and a society-must protect and give priority to those who are most vulnerable and at risk. We see this from the laws in the Old Testament that looked out for the poor and the widows, to Jesus' embrace of people on the margins of society, to the early church's adamant support of those who had less. The Bible urges us to put those who are most at risk first.

In the midst of the coronavirus, the vulnerable take many forms. Most obvious are those who are elderly or have other health conditions that make them most susceptible to illness. Those who are younger may not be concerned about our own health risks, but if we help pass on the virus, it can be a life-or-death situation for others.

Others are financially vulnerable and do not have the flexibility to take sick leave that many of us take for granted. That puts them in a difficult situation when they become ill and may have to choose between putting their job at risk and staying home to protect others. Likewise, many parents do not have the flexibility to stay home when school is canceled for their children.

The situation is impacting many others, such as small business owners who may already be on shaky financial ground.

A SPIRIT OF SACRIFICE- This health crisis is challenging many of us to make sacrifices in our lives. Some are huge, such as those made by exhausted health care workers around the world, desperately trying to keep patients alive (while avoiding the illness themselves.)

Other sacrifices fall more in the category of inconveniences. It is inconvenient when events are canceled, schools close, and travel is limited. It is inconvenient to wash our hands intentionally and regularly.

But this kind of sacrifice is at the very center of our faith. Every time we gather around the Lord's Table, we celebrate the powerful way Christ showed us how to love others. He sacrificed everything in self-giving love for us. Truly loving others will always cost us something.

Actions that may not entirely make sense to us can have huge effects. Scientists point to the 1918 flu when St. Louis proactively and aggressively closed its schools to prevent infections. Death rates in the city were about one third those in Pittsburg, which was much slower to close its schools. Thousands of lives were saved.

We may grumble about or resist changing our habits, especially if it's unclear what's in it for us. But we need to remember that many of these actions are more about protecting others. Perhaps the invitation amidst this crisis is to embrace the inconveniences fully, and then move beyond them to seek out the best ways to serve those who are most in need.

LOVING OUR NEIGHBOR- Community is essential to us as Christians, We are the Body of Christ, and we know that when two or more gather in Jesus' name, he is present with us. So it may be a bit harder for us to handle the "social distancing" happening in many communities.

Our call to community is not only in the context of our church but also in our neighborhood community. How do we literally love our neighbor? How can we be witnesses on our streets?

One way is to regularly check in on your neighbors who may be vulnerable and isolated. Offer to deliver groceries or other items for them or to run other errands so they won't have to risk infection by leaving their home.

Be a positive, calming influence in any online neighborhood communities. Don't spread rumors or hysteria, but find ways to support each other through the crisis.

LIVING THE VIRTUES- Ultimately, as with life in general, we are called to live out the four cardinal virtues:

• Prudence-Carefully discern the best course of action not just for ourselves, but for the good of all. Ask: What action does God want me to take?

• Justice- Seek fairness for everyone, especially those who need it most. Ask" Who is not getting the help that they need?

• Temperance-Fina a healthy balance between self care and care for others. Ask: Do I err toward selfishness or an unhealthy co- dependence?

• Fortitude- Persevere in times of trial and difficulty. Ask: Do I have the courage to do the right thing even when the going gets tough?

Cancelled until further notice.

During Lent, the Church invites us to reflect on those times when we have turned away from God and consider how we can return to God in all we say and do. It is a time for reconciliation and healing. At the heart of all these actions is our relationship with God that began at our Baptism.

On each Tuesday during Lent, all are invited at 6:30pm in Kelley Hall, Holy Cross Parish to come pray with and reflect upon the promises made during Baptism, through which we reject sin and profess our faith in God. We share in this journey with those who are preparing for Baptism at the Easter Vigil. Each week during Lent, we will reflect on one of the Baptismal promises and consider its meaning in our daily life. We are encouraged to transform our hearts so that we become witnesses to the love of God. Our Lenten journey leads us to the celebration of Easter, when we renew our Baptismal promises and rejoice in the salvation gained for us by Christ's Resurrection.

The Rite of Election of Catechumens and the Call to continuing Conversion of Candidates who are Preparing for Reception into the Full Communion of the Catholic Church is celebrated each year on the First Sunday of Lent. We pray for those entering into Lent, as they have made their intention known to join us at the table of the Lord, as we, baptized members of the Roman Catholic Church, reflect upon our initiation and prepare to be renewed in our Baptism at Easter.

Is your marriage going down the right road…or is it a little off track? Are you already separated? Retrouvaille can help and offers hope for a better relationship. Retrouvaille is a peer ministry of volunteer couples that can help you learn the tools of healthy communication. Couples of al faiths as well as non-religious couples are welcome. For more information contact 717-356-2185 or visit the website at www.HelpOurMarriage.org.

Financial Statements for the 2019 calendar year will be mailed in late January 2019, upon request only. Donations for tax purposes for 2019 should have already been made. If you would like a tax statement please call the parish office.

(1) THE ANNULMENT PROCESS

If you are or know someone looking for information how to proceed and move forward after a divorce, please call the Rectory (570-489-0752).

(2) “HOW DO I GET MY MARRIAGE BLESSED IN THE CHURCH?”

If you’ve been married civilly (judge, mayor, justice of the peace, etc.) and are looking to have your marriage convalidated (blessed in the Church, celebrating the Sacrament of Matrimony), and need information or have questions, please call the Rectory and ask for Monsignor Delaney.

Cancelled until further notice.

Catholic Social Services of The Diocese of Scranton offers compassionate counseling in a safe, comfortable environment where your privacy is always respected. Counseling is about self-discovery and can be used for personal growth or when distressing conditions exist and you need a bit of extra support… help is available. Anyone who struggles with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions or a variety of emotional or psychological conditions is welcome. For more information or to make an appointment, call 570-207-2283.

Unexpected Pregnancy

An unexpected pregnancy may cause one to panic and feel their entire world is falling apart. Pregnancy counseling is available to every pregnant woman regardless of age, race, religion, or marital status. Supportive counseling is also offered to anyone affected by the pregnancy. For assistance or more information call Catholic Social Services at 800-982-4310.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL COUNSELING

Are you or someone you know struggling with problems related to Drugs or Alcohol? For over 80 years Catholic Social Services has helped individuals and families deal with substance abuse. For more information please call Catholic Social Services at 570-829-3489.

In order to hear the voice of God, one has to have silence in one’s soul and to keep silence; not a gloomy silence, but an interior silence, that is to say, recollection in God. One can speak a great deal without breaking silence and, on the contrary, one can speak little and be constantly breaking silence.

……..St. Faustina Kowalska

Meditation is the mother of the love of God, and contemplation is the daughter of the love of God. Contemplation is nothing other than taking delight in the goodness of him whom we have learned to know in meditation, and whom we have learned to love by means of this knowledge.

………..St. Francis De Sales

Let us put our hope in Jesus, the name of salvation given to men and women of every language and race. Confessing his name, let us walk trustfully toward the future, certain that we will not be disappointed if we trust in the most holy name of Jesus. - St. John Paul II

Every moment of prayer, especially before our Lord in the tabernacle, is a positive gain. The time we spend in having our daily audience with God is the most precious part of the whole day.

……….Blessed Teresa of Calcutta

Prayer is nothing else than union with God. In this intimate union God and the soul are like two pieces of wax molded into one; they cannot anymore be separated. It is a very wonderful thing, this union of God with his insignificant creature, a happiness passing all understanding.

……..St. John Vianney

Our Lady of the Rosary

Mary, Mother of Christ, tech us to pray your rosary as it should be prayed. For these ordinary beads strung on threads hold within themselves all the mysteries of our holy faith and all the main ways of prayer. Mary, Queen of the Rosary, open to us its holy secrets. Let it be our door to the heart of your son, his Father, and the Holy Spirit. ………….Catherine Doherty

"May is a month which the piety of the faithful has long dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God. This is the month during which Christians, in their churches and their homes, offer the Virgin Mother more fervent and loving acts of homage and veneration; and it is the month is which a greater abundance of God’s merciful gifts comes down to us from our Mother’s throne."

……..Pope Paul VI

Meditation is the mother of the love of God, and contemplation is the daughter of the love of God. Contemplation is nothing other than taking delight in the goodness of him whom we have learned to know in meditation, and whom we have learned to love by means of this knowledge. ……..St. Francis De Sales

The More you pray, the more you want to pray. It’s like a fish that starts by swimming near the surface of the water then plunges and goes on swimming deeper and deeper. The soul plunges, is swallowed up, loses itself in the delights of conversation with God. ….St John Vianney

Parents who are sitting in the choir loft with their children, are asked NOT to sit in the first row due to safety issues. Your cooperation will be greatly appreciated.

Know a Marriage That Needs Help?  Throw them a lifeline and tell them about Retrouvaille, an international program that helps couples who are experiencing marital difficulties. This program is for all couples, at any stage of marriage that needs help to communicate with each other in a more attentive and loving manner. The next program in the Scranton Diocese begins Feb. 26-Feb. 28, 2016, at The Ramada Inn, Clarks Summit, PA. Please call 800-470-2230 for more information or to register or visit the website at www.helpourmarriage.org.