Dear Parishioners of Our Lady of the Lakes Parish,

I am writing to you, again, to encourage you in these unusual times. It is important for all of us to remain healthy. Our government has taken a lot of steps to ensure our physical well-being but, I do not think enough has been done in other areas.

In my conversations with people, it is clear there are many who are struggling emotionally, psychologically, financially, and spiritually. In the effort to take care of people physically, we must not neglect the whole person. We are more than physical beings. As you journey through these difficult times, please be patient with yourselves, those you love, and strangers you encounter. Remember, we are all loved by Our Risen Lord Jesus.

The Church has closed its doors. Personally, I do not agree with this decision. I still believe that if the grocery stores can be open because they are considered essential, the church should be open for people to at least make a short visit. We could limit the number of people in the church at one time, and we could clean it every day. I believe that our leaders are making a serious mistake by stating that God’s House is not as essential as a grocery store. Still, we must all remember that the door is always open to Our Savior when we call out to Our Lord. Many of you wonder when our church doors will open again. Unfortunately, I am not in charge of this and I do not have an answer to this question. However, be assured that when the restrictions have been lifted and we can be opened, our doors will be unlocked. I anticipate that it may be a gradual opening up of things, but I do not really know how all this will come about.

I just want all of you to know that I miss you, I am thinking about you, and I am praying for you at Mass. I know that Fr. Michael, the Deacons, and the entire staff of Our Lady of the Lakes Parish, are keeping everyone in their prayers. We are a people of faith and this is what we do. We pray for one another.

Please stay safe and take care of yourselves spiritually, physically, financially, psychologically, and emotionally. Whatever resources are available to you, please use them to help you through these difficult times. Reach out to family and to those you love. Even though you may be separated from others, it does not mean you cannot still be connected.

Yours in Christ,
Fr. George Koeune, Pastor