4 PM           117                         1

6 PM             60                         0

8 AM             61                         3

10 AM           87                         6

12 PM           86                         0

2 PM             46                         0

     The 4 PM Mass neared full capacity with just 8 spots left.  Both the 10 AM and 12 PM Masses had 12 spots left.  The 6 PM and 8 AM Mass had more room with the 2 PM Mass having plenty of room.  Adding 7 chairs in the parish hall and 6 chairs in the back of the church has made a big difference.

     To my pleasant surprise, everything went pretty smoothly this past weekend.  Thanks for all your cooperation, sacrificing for one another, and putting Jesus first.

     I read recently that Europe has entered its second wave.  I wonder if we're beginning to do so here in the United States.  At CovidActNow.org, I've noticed an increase in red states from just 1 a few weeks ago to 14 now.  Currently, there are 7 yellow states.  All other states are orange.

     In New Jersey, Ocean County has been red and is currently orange.  Many other counties have turned orange.

     If we are entering a second wave, it may not be nearly as deadly.  Currently, hospitalizations and deaths are pretty low relative to the number of new cases.  Even so, it's good for us to remain prudent and cautious.  Since we know a lot more about the coronavirus, I hope that we won't need another lockdown.  Instead, we can continue to adapt as the situation changes.

     You know a runner is a little crazy if he runs in the rain in order to maintain his training schedule.  Well, today was my scheduled running day.  So, I ran in drizzle and wind.  Surprisingly, weather conditions were more conducive to running than the summer heat.  I ran five miles at 8:30 per mile.  My heart and lungs are ready for another half marathon, but my legs need another nine days.  I'm thinking of going for a personal record sometime in November.  Based on how I felt today and past history, I may peak around 11/5 or 11/12.

     I actually enjoyed running today in the midst of the storm.  It is possible for us to experience peace and joy in the midst of this pandemic and social unrest.  Jesus is eager to provide the grace we need.  He likes to surprise us with love.

God love you,

Fr. Jim