Dear Parish Family,

As young adults, we go off to the workplace, trade school or college with the great expectation and confidence of making our place in the world. The recent shooting at Michigan State University, tells us how quickly this anticipation may be cut short. The father of a now MSU student shared how devastating it was to have his daughter at Oxford High School one and a half years ago when that massacre occurred.  He spoke of her awareness and knowing what was the best form of action, in yet another shooting . Much as it is difficult to understand, we must be aware and prepared!  There is a sense of vulnerability and even anxiety, but we are NOT helpless. We offer our prayers to the victims, the injured, faculty, students and families.

Having just mentioned being prepared – safety is a number one priority for all of us here at St Mark.  We have a tremendous group of gentlemen who make up our Safety Committee.  They are at every Mass and if needed will be the voices we all need to listen too! They are trained to get us out of the building quickly in case of fire.  They are trained to offer assistance should there be a medical emergency.  They are trained where to shelter in the building for a weather emergency. They have also been trained how to help with an active shooter or disruptive individual.

In situations such as these, we implore you to remain quiet, listen to, and follow the instructions of these men.  As always, we move forward with Expectation and hope that none of these situations occur.

PRAY – HOPE - DON’T WORRY (St Padre Pio)

May our loving God continue to guide, protect and bless us.

Mary Jo