Dear Saint Mary’s Family,

He is Risen! Alleluia!
 
Even with the many stories we have heard over the past few weeks about acts of humanity and kindness in the face of the coronavirus pandemic, the constant flow of news has been frightening. However, we cannot let the crisis cast a shadow on our vision of the light of Christ’s Resurrection. Just as the darkness of Good Friday was cast away by God’s victory over death, so too will our suffering point towards salvation if we unite behind the teachings of Jesus.
 
At our parish and across the Diocese of Austin, we have not been able to receive the Eucharist. But as Pope Francis reminded us all in his Easter message, “the Lord has not left us alone. United in our prayer, we are convinced that he has laid his hand upon us firmly reassuring us: Do not be afraid. I have risen and I am with you still!”

Our Challenge: Keeping the Lights on

Unfortunately, our parish has not been immune to the effects of the virus. Our weekly collections have typically fallen short of our budgetary requirements and they have been even smaller this year compared to years past.

*Based on total annual expenses in 2019.

Saint Mary’s relies on your support, both spiritually and financially. While Masses and parish activity are only recently getting back to "normal," we remain reliant on your generosity to pay the bills and keep our parish staffed, to keep the lights on. Unfortunately the coronavirus crisis has resulted in a decline in our offertory over this same time period last year.

These are very uncertain time. And the lack of offertory will have a significant effect on parish activities, our ability to pay essential bills, and parish staff size. While the weekly offertory basket cannot be passed in-pew, I ask you to please consider one of our alternative options of offertory:

1. Donate online using this link: Give to Saint Mary’s.

2. Mailing your envelope/weekly contribution: 1401 Washington Ave., Waco, TX 76701

3. Dropping it off at the parish office, weekdays between 9 am and 4 pm.

We also would like to encourage you to sign up for our Flocknote messages so that you can stay up-to-date with our parish announcements and communications. If you would like to sign up for our updates, please visit our parish website and submit your information on the Flocknote Signup module. And please continue to tune in to our live stream Mass on the parish Facebook page.
 
Few of us have experienced a situation such as what is happening with COVID-19 in our lifetime. Scripture reminds us “that all things work for good for those who love God” Romans 8:28. Please do not lose hope. Remember, God is still in control and will give you peace.
 
In closing, I pray for your health, well-being and peace for you and your family. And I look forward to the day we can join once again in the house of God.
 
Ever gratefully, yours in Christ,
Fr. Joe