Well St. Libory family, here we are, another week into the uncharted waters of dealing with the unknown. I say unknown, because the whole business of the virus and the demonstrations/riots & destruction, has been steeped in confusion and misinformation. As is the present nature of our culture right now, everything is politicized and therefore used in attempts to manipulate folks in one direction or the other. I love science. Some say just listen to the science concerning the virus. I try to but even the “science” is frequently politicized or as has been the case, unproven assumptions are put forward that prove later to be wrong. (Example: It was early on put forward that anyone could be a carrier of the virus even if they do not actively have the virus. This was wrong but it triggered a mass hysteria of over the top restrictions which we are still sorting out at great cost.) So, what are we to do? It is clear that this virus is very serious business for the elderly and any persons with respiratory conditions. We all need to be very aware of this and take proper measures to ensure the safety of these vulnerable individuals. It is true that we can have the virus before we have active signs of the virus. In this early stage we can unintentionally spread it to others. Mask do not prevent us from contacting the virus. They do however help to slow the transmission of the virus by stopping the sputum that naturally sprays as a fine mist from our mouth as we speak, or sneeze or cough. The social distancing also addresses this. But as I have said repeatedly, the number one way the virus is spread, (as well as all contagions) is hand to face. So, the best practice is what we learned in kindergarten, wash your hands (or disinfect)! Finally, just be wise and thoughtful of others. I do not like overreaching rules and mandates. God gave us rational minds, His Word and Holy Spirit to guide us. We each need to take reasonable responsibility for our own safety and look out for our neighbor. Not to do so is a transgression against the 5th Commandment, not to kill. This commandment extends to any intentional behavior that injures or endangers others or ourselves. So, love the Lord, love yourself, and love your neighbor! God bless you all! Fr. Sid.