April 19

Today’s Readings: ACTS 2:42-47 PS 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24

1 PT 1:3-9 JN 20:19-31

Today’s First Reading begins, “They devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles and to the communal life, to the breaking of the bread and to the prayers.”

Seriously? Another reading about gathering together and the breaking of the bread?

Yet, I’d like to share how I’ve seen our community really shine during this troubled time.

I’ve seen people dropping off generous checks in our front office and a record number of parishioners switching over to online giving. You’ve done this in the midst of Mass cancellations, thus showing you aren’t Catholics who only give in order to receive.

I’ve seen parishioners dropping by with homemade masks for staff members. You know we are still here working for you and you are concerned about our health.

Our staff keeps receiving emails that contain beautiful affirmations and promises of prayer.

I’ve heard so many stories of coworkers asking parishioners if there is anything they need, only to be told the parishioner wants to help if someone else might need anything.

This parish is a beautiful family and I feel blessed to be a part of it.

David is the Director of Faith Formation at Our Lady of Joy. If you have comments or questions, send your emails to dlins@oloj.org.

As we have lost our weekly collection income, we can only maintain our current staff for a limited time without your help. Please spread the word and sign up for auto-pay or make whatever donation you can at www.ezekielgiving.com/App/Giving/oloj.