My Dear Brothers and Sisters,

My prayers are with all of you as we enter into the Season of Christmas with all of its beautiful liturgy and feasts. I pray that the graces of these holy days may inspire you throughout the New Year that is upon us.

There has been a good response to my Christmas Appeal thus far. We still have a way to go to catch up to what we need to balance our budget, but we have made good progress. Nearly all of our debts are paid off at the moment and so we start the cycle once again. Please keep in mind the financial needs of the parish throughout the coming year.

A contract has been submitted to the Bishop for the front stairs of the Basilica, which are in need of repair. The project should cost about $15,000.00. Work will most likely begin in the spring after approval is given.

There will be an overflow space in the parish hall for all of the Christmas Masses. Seating in the Basilica will be on a first come basis.

The MASK MANDATE asked for by the Bishop for all parishes in the Des Moines diocese is still in effect. Everyone is required to wear a mask while in the Basilica and the vestibule for Mass and any other function in the Basilica. I know that there are many different opinions regarding this, but I ask that you please obey the wishes of the Bishop out of a spirit of obedience. We are all subject to his authority. Also, all social functions are to be cancelled at least through 02 February 2021.

Please be cautious and stay well. Take seriously the restrictions that have been placed upon us for our good and the good of others, such as frequently washing hands, using hand sanitizer, using masks and social distancing, and STAYING HOME IF YOU FEEL ILL IN ANY WAY OR MIGHT BE MORE VULNERABLE. Let us continue to pray for the day when we will be able to once again gather normally around the altar of the Lord and return to normal parish life.

Let us go forward, trusting Divine Providence in all things. May all the Lord’s blessings for a New Year of grace be yours!
 

Devotedly yours in the Lord,

(The Very Reverend) Aquinas M. Nichols

Pastor