New photo galleries posted on website
Two new galleries of photos have been posted on the parish website. The first includes images from the farewell party for former pastor, Fr. Joseph Wamala; the second consists of photos of the welcome to newly ordained deacon Dillon Bruce.
New pastor for St. Francis
As of July 5, Father Matthias Lusembo from Norfolk has assumed his duties as pastor of St. Francis of Assisi in Staunton. Both Fr. Lusembo and former pastor, Fr. Joseph Wamala, are priests from the country of Uganda.
Return of obligation to attend Mass
Given the drop in illnesses and deaths from the coronavirus, the bishops of the Province of Baltimore (which includes the Diocese of Richmond, and thus St. Francis Parish) and of the Archdiocese of Washington have lifted the dispensation of the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and holydays of obligation. Therefore, beginning the weekend of June 26-27, Catholics must once more attend Mass on those occasions. As always, those who are ill or otherwise unable to be in church are not obliged to attend Mass. Read the bishops’ statement in its entirety.
Morning Prayer sung each Wednesday
Once again, beginning June 23, the St. Francis Schola will lead the office of Morning Prayer, including beautiful, contemplative psalm melodies, every Wednesday at 7 a.m. in the church. Parishioners are invited to start the day off with the official prayers of the universal Church.
Current procedures for attending Mass
Policies for attending Mass at St. Francis: Masks are no longer required for those who have been fully vaccinated, and social distancing is not required (all pews are available). Those not fully vaccinated must wear masks during Mass.
Livestream of Sunday 8:30 Mass
The Sunday 8:30 a.m. Mass will be livestreamed for those unable to be in the church for the liturgy. See the parish’s Facebook page. Weekday Masses are no longer being livestreamed.
Adult Faith Formation meets on Sundays at 10 a.m.
Adult Faith Formation meets at 10 a.m. in Assisi Hall each Sunday. The group is now discussing the Eucharist. All adults are invited.
Annual Diocesan Appeal
The annual Catholic Appeal for the Diocese of Richmond continues. The easiest way to make your pledge is to visit the appeal website, click on “Donate Now,” and select either to make a one-time donation or to become a recurring donor. From there, follow the prompts for the “2021 Annual Diocesan Appeal.” Be sure to select St. Francis of Assisi (Staunton) as your organization. Additional information is available.
Formed: Catholic content on the web
With a subscription to “Formed,” every St. Francis parishioner has 24/7 access to the best Catholic content on any device, including your computer, smartphone, and tablet with internet access. “Formed” offers video programs that explain the Catholic faith, explore the deepest meaning of marriage, receive Bible studies on a variety of topics, and listen to inspiring audio talks. Presenters include Dr. Tim Gray, Dr. Edward Sri, Dr. Mary Healey, Chris Stefanick, Dr. Scott Hahn, Bishop Robert Barron, and many more. It is very easy to begin your free subscription to “Formed”: Go to www.formed.org. Under “How would you like to sign up?” select “I belong to a Parish or Organization.” Enter the parish code: VVW3G4. Enter your name and email address, and that’s it.