My brothers and sisters in Christ, It has been a difficult week for all of us here in the Diocese of Springfield as we learned from the Judge Velis Report about serious allegations of sexual abuse made against the late Bishop Christopher J. Weldon, allegations which Judge Velis found to be credible, a finding that I have accepted. As I read the report my heart went out to this individual who suffered so much at such an early age. He came forward with much courage to share his traumatic story of abuse. I have personally sat and listened to his heart wrenching recounting of the abuse. But what is most frustrating for me, and for all of you I am sure, is the Judge’s finding that this person’s case was mishandled from the onset, compounding this victim’s pain caused by his tragic abuse, with the pain of not being heard and treated with the compassion he was owed. I want to again apologize to this individual for all the pain he has suffered. But as I said Wednesday, apologies are not enough if not follows through with the substantial changes in our system of receiving and investigation any and all claims of abuse. To that end, in studying Judge Velis’ report we have learned much how we as a diocese can improve our efforts, offering us an important roadmap for achieving read and substantial change. We all have to be resolved that this cannot happen in the future. Some of this has already been undertaken including a more thorough intake and investigation procedure. In addition, we now have enter3ed into a Memorandum of Understanding with the district attorney’s offices in our region, an agreement that provides a clear and consistent procedure for reporting all claims of abuse that we become aware of in any manner. Furthermore, it is critical that all mandated reports within the diocese—clery, educators, staff and volunteers—up-hold our responsibility and duty to report allegations of abuse and neglect to civil authorities. We can expect more recommendations when our newly created task force, under the leadership of Judge Daniel Ford and Ms. Irene Collins, begins its work in earnest. As we move forward, I ask for your prayers, your understanding and for your insights in any way that we as a diocese can reach out to victims and help them in the healing process. In closing, I understand that such revelations can understandably cause us to question our faith and especially those entrusted with leadership roles in our church. May Jesus the great healer come to give us inspiration and helps, especially in times of great darkness and pain. We rely on our Lord Jesus, his Blessed Mother and the saints to help us in the days ahead as we seek to be a church of healing and of hope. Thank you and God bless you, Most. Reviewed. Mitchell T. Rozanski, Apostolic Administrator

The Mass Intention book is available for Masses for the rest of the year (2020). Most Masses are still open for the rest of the month and into July.

Just a reminder that MASKS are required for Mass. Weather permitting we will continue to celebrate weekend Masses outdoors.

Thank you Nancy Nolan for your 30 years of dedicated service to St Joseph's Cemetery. God bless you in your retirement. We are grateful for you for all you have done for us.

Sunday 9 a.m. Mass is being streamed on the parish web page. Thank you Mike Wheeler.

Please consider signing up to give your donations to our parish online. It is very easy to do. You can donate either with a credit card or a check and choose how much you would like to give and how often: weekly, monthly, semi-monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually. You can go directly to the website at https://stjoepittsfield.weshareonline.org to sign up. We thank you for your generosity during these difficult times.

Funerals are permitted in the church. Your funeral director will inform you of the conditions that need to be observed.