Dear Friends and Parishioners,
Dear parishioners, friends, and benefactors,
This year, like Mary and Joseph, we will experience Christmas amidst uncertainty for our future. Soon after Christmas the Holy Family had to flee from their hometown to another country as refugees. We too, because of coronavirus, find ourselves "in a different world", without the possibility to relate, to shake hands, to exchange gestures of tenderness and affection. Pope Francis predicts that none of us will come out of this pandemic the same: we will come out either better or worse. The angels at Bethlehem, by proclaiming peace, encourage us not to give in to despair. They invite us to share, as the wise men did, the best gifts that we can offer: prudence, responsibility and solidarity. That is how we will become better persons. Mary Christmas!
At St. Peter's, we have recently resumed the celebration of the Eucharist with the presence of people. We feel again the joy of being close, albeit in the "mutilated form", at a distance. The Mass is being live-streamed on Facebook every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. and at 10:00 a.m. in Spanish from S. Conrado for those who cannot be physically present. (Find us on Facebook by searching: "Saint Peter's Italian Church Los Angeles."
During this pandemic, many of us have improved our use of electronic communication, which helped us stay in touch remotely. You can also stay in touch with us by continuing to visit us here. We will update you regarding when we will be allowed to resume our "normal" activities.
Financially, we have been able to keep our lights on with the help of a fundraiser that saw the participation of 131 parishioners and friends. Some have continued to send their offerings monthly by mail or electronically. Thank you for your commitment! Taking into account the economic constraints in which we continue to find ourselves, caused by the pandemic, I ask you to, please, help us with your continued financial support.
By the way, the winners of the lottery are:
· First prize: A trip for two to Rome with a week lodging – Ticket #: 1933 - Anna
· Second prize: $1000.00 cash – Ticket #: 5267- Michelle
· Third prize: $500.00 cash – Ticket #: 4659- Angelo
The implementation of the calendar of our activities included in this letter is subject to the rules related to the pandemic that will be published by our governor and Archdiocese. Meanwhile: stay safe!
Thank you for your cooperation. You have been very patient and understanding with me. May the child Jesus also sanctify your family relationship. I thank God for the precious gift of your presence in our parish community, and I bless and hug you in the name of the Lord.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Fr. Louis Piran, c.s.