Dear Friend of Carmel Mission,
In Sunday’s Gospel Jesus tells us, “To anyone who has, more is given.” We can well imagine this phrase with the word “faith” included; to anyone who has faith, more faith is given. We are relying on faith more than ever in these difficult and uncertain times. As we contemplate the state of the world, it would be easy to overlook the hand of God, but we know, by faith, that we are all in God’s hand. The more we trust and have faith in God, the more that faith is returned with the peace of Christ that passes all understanding in our hearts.
Another phrase that comes to mind at the moment is, “there is nothing so constant as change”. Indeed, we have experienced yet another change in our re-opening efforts here at Carmel Mission this week. Monterey County, in response to growing numbers of Coronavirus cases in our area, has re-imposed some restrictions. As such, we have had to temporarily close the Basilica and much of the Mission grounds to visitors. The Mission store remains open, and we are able to open the Basilica for Masses only at this time. Sacrament of Reconciliation will continue this Saturday, but in a new location, our Central Courtyard. As always, I encourage you to visit the Advisory Page on our website for all the latest information on these changes. Thank you for your continued support and flexibility as we navigate the ever-changing demands of protecting the health and well-being of our community.
Last week, we live streamed our 11am Mass for the first time. It was wonderful to have over 500 people join us online for this celebration. Our connections as community of faith continue to evolve and develop. Thank for you being part of our family here at Carmel Mission, we are so appreciative of your presence and your support.
Jesus tells his disciples, “blessed are your eyes, because they see, and your ears, because they hear.” We are indeed blessed, especially in this perilous time, to have the vision of our Savior always before us, and to hear His voice. Jesus reminds us several times in the Gospel that we need to listen. Listen, not only to Him, but to our brothers and sisters as well. Sometimes the greatest gift we can give someone to is take the time to truly listen to them. This week, I invite you to join me in the act of listening. When we make the space within to listen to God and to one another, we equip ourselves to become the listening ears and the helping hands of Christ in our world.
I wish you and your loved ones blessings of good health, continued hope, and open ears and hearts with which to hear God’s message of saving love,
Fr. Paul
Please take a moment to read our Carmel Mission weekly bulletin.