Three parishes in St. Cloud; the Church of St. Augustine, St. Mary’s Cathedral and St. John Cantius Church; shared a recent message from the Rev. Scott Pogatchnik on the topic of Christan duty. 

While the congregation has been dedicated to attending Mass whenever possible, it is important to remember that keeping distance and protecting those who are less healthy is an act of service. 

“I know this increased participation by others can have a bittersweetness— happy to see community grow, but painful not to be present and draw needed life and strength from deep relationships,” Pogatchnik said in the Oct. 4 parish bulletin.

At times like these, we must root ourselves in the Lord, especially in moments when we cannot receive him in the Eucharist, challenging though it may be. 

“More than ever, I’ve tried to carry you in my prayer as I receive the Precious Blood from the chalice,” Pogatchnik said. “I can’t know your sufferings, but I ask Christ constantly to unite you to His act of fidelity to God the Father.”

For those who are attending Mass it is all the more important to be as safe as possible. Other than when receiving communion, masks must be worn and social distancing is the new norm at this time. Also, individuals who are feeling unwell are asked to stay at home until they are no longer experiencing symptoms. 

“To some, these requests are simple," Fr. Pogatchnik said. "To others, very burdensome. I pray daily that each of us can see the Mass not as another place where division is stubbornly manifest. Should true infringements on our freedom to exercise religion be put in place, I’m resolved to join in resisting those."

At the end of the day, we must pray for humility and act with generosity toward others, allowing our brothers and sisters in the Lord to draw close to the Lord without endangering them.