St. Joseph the Worker

A few new resources from the Diocese:

An important video message from our Fr. Marty Smith for students who are feeling stressed and worried

An important video message from our Fr. Rob Johnson about keeping the faith and spiritual Communion

Fr. Rob Johnson: A holy guide for you during this uncertain time

To access previously posted information regarding Liturgical Celebrations, Cancellations & Health concerns, click HERE. 

To view the bulletin click HERE.

Dear Parishioners

Here we are as a people of faith thrust into a worldwide pandemic of CONVID-19.  People are working diligently and around the clock to stop the virus in the US (and the world).  Stock markets continue to rise and fall, people are sheltered in place, store shelves are slowly recovering their stock (and yes, I even saw some TP packages).

Where is a loving God in times like this?  Why would God allow something like this to happen?  It is very easy to lose faith and to live in fear when the headlines are full of bad news.  People are scared--this is a virus to be taken seriously. However, is fear the right response?

“Fear not” is one of the most repeated commands in the Scriptures, and for good reason. We do not live in a God-less world, if we did, then we would have little hope, with ample reason to fear. Fear is “an unpleasant often-strong emotion caused by anticipation or awareness of danger.” (Webster)

Yet, as Christians, we live and walk by faith. Faith is a trust in God, in His goodness, care, control and our future.  Although the world may panic and fear the virus, and although society may put its hope and trust in policies, social distancing, and time, we ultimately put our faith in God. Jesus said, “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me” 

What does this look like in our current situation? It means we will pray. It means we will put others first. Moreover, it means that as a community of faith, rooted in the love of Jesus “We live our faith with our words and through our actions.” Christian freedom concerns what love will look like for each of us.

I found this prayer on the Internet:

Prayer for People Critically Ill or Facing Great Uncertainty

God of the present moment, God who in Jesus stills the storm
and soothes the frantic heart;

Bring hope and courage to all who wait or work in uncertainty.

Bring hope that you will make them the equal of whatever lies ahead.

Bring them courage to endure what cannot be avoided,
for your will is health and wholeness; you are God, and we need you.

-Adapted from New Zealand Prayer Book, p. 765

St Joseph the Worker Parish Calendar

Family Activity Calendar

Each month our Family Activity Calendar will make suggestions of fun things for families.

March 2020

April 2020

 Calendars for past months can be found under the Formation Tab at the top of the page.

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MINISTRY SCHEDULER

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Parish Bulletin submissions are due Monday at 4pm

to [email protected] 

We Pray 

Lord Jesus,
You traveled through towns and villages
curing every disease and illness among the people. 

At your command, the sick were made well.
Come to our aid now in this health crisis so that we may know your healing love.

Heal those who are sick: 
     may they regain their health and strength.
Heal us from our fear, 
     which prevents us from helping one another.
Heal us from our pride, 
     which makes us certain of our health and life apart from you.

Bless health care professionals with strength and compassion
     as they selflessly respond to our needs.

We make this prayer in your strong and holy name,
you, who with the Father and Spirit,
live and reign for ever and ever.
Amen. 

 MISSION STATEMENT

Vibrant & Active

St. Joseph the Worker Parish

We are a Roman Catholic faith family in Chatham Illinois   committed to proclaiming the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

We live our faith with our words and through our actions.  Nourished by the Word of God and the Eucharist, we seek to become a place of mercy and hope where everyone is welcomed, loved and respected.