Now that we have gone past the date whereby most Covid protocols have fallen to the wayside, I thought it might be helpful to give a small catechesis on one of the Rites that has yet to be restored to the Mass: the sign of peace. Before I get to that, I wanted to update you on a few things happening already. I sent out a survey to my fellow Duluth pastors, asking which of the following Rites had already returned in their Churches: sign of peace, bringing up the gifts, receiving the Precious Blood. Most had not begun them at all. A few have started the sign of pace or bringing up the gifts but with modifications. So, we are at about the same place as the others. We also need to begin the formal greeters that we had at the Cathedral.

So now it is a good opportunity to do a little catechesis on the sign of peace. The sign of peace occurs at a point in the Mass which is very important: right before we receive the Eucharist. This is a ritual formula that reminds us what we are doing.  We are sharing the peace that comes from Christ, that we might be fully prepared to receive the Eucharist.  Often, we simply say: “peace be with you” or “peace”, but at times, people have added their own additions which can change the meaning or the focus of this liturgical gesture.  The Vatican gave some helpful points on avoiding any abuses such as: the introduction of a “song for peace,” which is non-existent in the Roman Rite; the movement of the faithful from their places to exchange the sign of peace; the departure of the priest from the altar; the exchange of peace being the occasion for expressing congratulations, best wishes or condolences.

Remember this is a ritual action, which should focus on sharing the peace of Christ, and showing that there is harmony and unity in the Body of Christ, which stems from our common relationship in Christ.  The sign of peace is not about us saying hello or greeting as many people as possible.  It is meant to be brief.  The instruction from the Roman missal says: “It is appropriate that each person, in a sober manner, offer the sign of peace only to those who are nearest.”

And what about shaking hands in the time of Covid or previously during flu season? Well the Missal says this about the gesture to be used: “And all offer one another a sign, in keeping with local customs, that expresses peace, communion, and charity. The Priest gives the sign of peace to a Deacon or minister.” As you can see, there is no specific gesture prescribed. Perhaps when we begin again, we will need to be sensitive to those around us, and simply say the words “Peace be with you” while offering them a kind smile, or nod of the head, without forcing a handshake on them? 

As we continue to make our way through the worst pandemic to hit our lives, let’s take the opportunity to renew ourselves in the Liturgy given to us. Let’s stay close to the Lord. And may we be charitable to one another, as we find our way back to a new normal beyond the Coronavirus.

In Christ & Mary Immaculate,

Fr. Tony

The Holy Rosary Society invites all women to their next in-person meeting, Saturday, August 7th.  We meet in the St. Mary Star of the Sea Social Hall at 1:30 pm.  First there is fellowship and prayer, followed by the formal meeting.  We usually finish around 3:00 pm. Please join us for prayer and fellowship even if you can't stay for the meeting.  Contact Rosary President Renee Zurn at 218-723-1321 for more info. -- Face masks recommended for unvaccinated.  

The Parish Picnic for the Cathedral and St. Mary Star of the Sea will be held on Saturday, September 11  at the Holy Rosary School campus following Mass. Please note, Mass at the Cathedral will be celebrated at 4 PM this day. Stay tuned for more details regarding this wonderful and fun upcoming parish event! We will also be posting volunteer opportunities in August.

Now Hiring: Spread the word— exceptional educators needed! Stella Maris Academy is seeking a full time Pre-K teacher and a full time K-4 teacher.  Visit www.stellamaris.academy/employment to apply today!

East Duluth Catholic Faith Formation, a collaborative effort of the parishes in East Duluth, is accepting applications for the Director of Relational and Youth Ministry for 6th – 12th grade students. This is a part-time position with flexible hours. We are looking for someone who possesses a sincere and demonstrated ability to share their Catholic faith in the dynamic environment of a larger-scale middle and high school religious education program. The director is responsible for opportunities whereby faith can be sparked and nourished through retreat experiences and other opportunities for building relationships with our young people. Please see the full job description here. If you are interested in this position, please send a cover letter, resume and references to lauren.mccracken@duluthcatholic.org.  

The Diocese of Duluth’s Office of Marriage, Family, and Life has now opened registration for our First Annual Catholic Family Camp at Big Sandy Camp and Retreat Center in McGregor, MN, on August 13-15. Family fun includes campfires, swimming, waterslide, volleyball, hiking, pontoon rides, laser tag, Mass, Adoration, and family prayer time. There is lodge space, RV, and tenting sites. Food is included and no dishes. For more information, go to  Marriage, Family and Life | Diocese of Duluth . A limited amount of financial support is available by a generous benefactor. Preference for allocation will be given to participants with larger families. So “Go for the Fun, Stay for the Faith!” Questions can be directed to betsy.kneepkens@duluthcatholic.org.

KofC.org/JoinUs Call Bob Spehar: 218-349-5051

The Diocese of Duluth's Pastoral Center is filling their building maintenance position. This role is casual, therefore one will be called upon as needs arise. The successful candidate will assist in maintaining and monitoring building operations, equipment, and grounds of the Diocese of Duluth. The goal is to maintain an efficient, safe, and effective environment for staff and visitors. Please contact Mary Rasch at mary.rasch@duluthcatholic.org for a job description and an application.

For the months of June and July, St. Vincent de Paul Immaculate Conception Conference meetings will be held on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month at St. Mary Star of the Sea at 6 PM.  Email svdpduluthmn@gmail.com with questions or for more details.  You are invited to join us in this ministry of experiencing God in serving our neighbors living in poverty.