As we move into these uncertain winter months, I want you to know that we at Saint Francis Xavier are here for you. We miss you. We invite you to come back to Mass if you have been away, even if it is one of our weekday Masses with fewer people present. If you are unsure about attending Sunday Masses during this time of pandemic, simply call the rectory, and I or a minister in the Church will meet you at the church to offer Holy Communion. I am also available to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation or the Anointing of the Sick. For Catholics, the Sacraments are instituted by Christ to give us grace. Pope Francis reminds us that Communion is not a reward for good behavior but medicine for the sick. We all need Christ’s help during these difficult times. Take time out each day for your own prayer. Pray as a family before meals. Watch Mass online if you don’t feel safe coming to Mass, and join in the online offerings that our parish and diocese offer. I am here for you and pray daily for you. This is my duty and blessing for me as a parish priest.
God bless,
Monsignor Lavalley and Father Sanderson
Please watch the campaign video and learn why now, more than ever, the Catholic Church in Vermont needs to move forward with the Christ Our Hope: Building a Vibrant Church campaign. We cannot give up on the future of the parishes and ministries serving the faith community. Many parishes have seen significant downturns in funding, and they need our help; requests for emergency financial aid have increased; and the need to strengthen our Catholic education and faith formation programs has never been more important.
This campaign offers a wonderful opportunity for parishes to use 60 percent of the funds they raise to address specific parish needs with the other 40 percent to strengthen our faith formation programs and expand emergency aid to people in need. To learn more visit: christourhopevt.org