Let Us Give Thanks

Catholics in Diocese of Metuchen find new ways to stay connected to their faith

2020
Sacraments
of
Initiation

Dear Parishioners and Friends of Saint Francis,

This holy season of advent leads us to our celebration of great joy. Despite the challenges of this pandemic, or maybe because of them we need Jesus, his Blessed Mother and each other more than ever. As Christians we are people of hope, and when life and love seem distant it is not only our personal advantage but also our responsibility to extend hope to everyone we meet.

Our Cathedral parish priests, deacons, religious and staff wish everyone in our parish family as well as our extended family a Blessed Christmas. May the Holy Spirit of the Lord fill you with Christian hope. It is always our spiritual strength and life, and the greatest gift we can share with others. It is how we can show God’s love. It is how others will know we are Christians – by our love.

As we all know, at the time I’m writing, our Governor has placed limits of 150 worshippers in our Cathedral for Masses and any liturgies, prayers, etc. We will celebrate four Christmas Eve Masses (4:00 PM, 6:00 PM, 8:00 PM and 10:30 PM [Bishop Checchio] and three Masses on Christmas Day (8:00 AM, 10:00 AM and 12:00 Noon). Because of restrictions we will not be able to accommodate the usual large number of worshippers, so we really encourage everyone to pray a Mass together as a family by means of our live streaming. Although Bishop Checchio has dispensed everyone from physically attending Mass during the pandemic, it’s Christmas! Who could accept it as a license to not pray the Holy Mass?

How sweet it is to think of families praying together at home! It is such an inspiring thought as I know families in our parish who actually do participate (standing, knelling, sitting) and pray with live streaming Masses or other times.

May the newborn Christ Child and his Mother, Mary, and Saint Joseph bless you through the intercession of Saint Francis of Assisi. BLESSED CHRISTMAS!

Rev. Msgr. Robert J. Zamorski
Rector

Restoration of Masses with a Congregation:
Guidelines for Those Attending Mass
at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi

Link to Livestream

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available on Saturday from 1:00 - 2:00 pm.