My Dear Brothers and Sisters,

We have entered into a very busy time of the year. Soon it will be Thanksgiving and then the Advent and Christmas Season. It is a time of many graces and blessings.

There presently is no mandate in the church for wearing masks. Those who feel more comfortable using one may still find them at the entrances of the Basilica. There are also bottles of hand sanitizer around the entrances. There has been no outbreak of the virus in the parish. Just remember to stay home if you feel sick in any way and remember to wash your hands frequently.

We have ordered and received 500 copies of the St. Michael Hymnal which will replace the red Worship books. These new hymnals have only hymns, both the traditional ones as well as new ones. Unfortunately, the accompaniment for the musicians is not yet complete and so we may not be able to use them until January. The same goes for the Year C volume of the proper Mass antiphons. The volume is not yet ready. So, we will have to make due with what we have until we are able to get everything in order. Please be patient.

Deacon Nick Smith, who was with us for the summer, has been in contact with me and is doing well in his final year of theology. Stanley Asjes is doing well in his final year of college. Let us remember to keep these fine men in our prayers.

The Capital Campaign for the diocese will be launched in the new year. We are in the first phase of parishes that will be starting. There will be more on this as the time gets closer and the details are worked out.

If you receive an E-Mail or text from me or from Bishop Joensen requesting money or gift cards, please DO NOT RESPOND. WE WOULD NEVER ASK YOU FOR FINANCIAL HELP IN THIS WAY. Just delete it and try to block the person. This has been happening to a lot of priests and to Bishop Joensen as well.

At the end of this month, you will be receiving my annual financial update and appeal. We are doing fairly well, but there are a number of projects that also must be completed in the new year. My letter will explain all of this later in a mailing this month.

Let us go forward, trusting Divine Providence in all things. Let us use our time wisely and give sufficient time for prayer. Increase your devotion to St. Joseph during this year dedicated to him. May all the Lord’s blessings and graces be yours!

Devotedly yours in the Lord,
 

(The Very Reverend) Aquinas M. Nichols

Pastor