Dear Parish Family,
WHEN WILL IT END??? We have all had enough stress from this endless pandemic, and then we are filled with the  horrific shootings in Oxford. From the time of Columbine, the brutality of Sandy Hook, and now in our backyard -the mental anguish effects everyone. One of the great tragedies of this, is of course, the loss of loved ones, but also the enormous fear which we now carry within each in every one of us. It is impossible to think that this will be the last of these tragic events!
These dreadful events stretch far and wide from the school to the community, to our state and beyond. There is no one who is immune!
We need to be aware of those among us, be it children or adults who suffer or are in distress It is not enough to brush aside their struggles and not actively seek help for them. The phrase "See something — Say something", means you and I!!
St. Mark is particularly blessed to have our faithful band of brothers (aka — Safety Committee) who are at every Mass, keeping watchful eyes for anything unusual. You may not know who this dedicated group is, but they have been trained for everything - weather, fire, first aid, theft, and   disturbances. The one thing Fr. Stanley and the staff ask of you, should there be a need, please follow any and all instructions from these gentlemen. Don't ask questions and waste time — DO WHAT THEY REQUEST!!
Each of the young people who have died all had bright futures cut way to short. We are taught the value of each and every life, and yet some have never learned this lesson. We pray for the suffering families of those who were killed or   injured. We pray for those whose quick actions saved countless others. We pray for our first responders and all who act to assist in these horrific situations. We pray for clergy who provide comfort and inspiration. And yes, we pray for the perpetrator.
We entrust everything to God's providential care. "God is our refuge and strength." (Psalm 46:1)
 
Mary Jo