Parishioners: You Are Important to Us

OLPH Response & Communications

May 14, 2020

“Do not let your hearts be troubled.
You have faith in God; have faith also in me.”

-John 14:1

Thank you. Thank you for your patience and prudence, as we join with our wider community to make sacrifices that we may protect and preserve life. You, like myself, are likely saturated with information, including recommendations for how we should adjust to life in the constantly shifting environment of the pandemic. We are eager to resume our family and community connections. Jesus reminds us that his intention is that we might be together, united in the Lord.

For most of our parishioners, I imagine Governor Hogan’s news and directives for the State of Maryland was received as good news. Though many of us are cautious, we are eager to resume prayer and sacraments in a safe and prudent manner. As Howard County has remained among the particularly high rate of Covid-19 in our state, per Howard County Executive, Dr. Calvin Ball our county will remain restricted and will not be progressing to stage one of recovery just yet. The Howard County parish leadership will be meeting to discuss a framework for our restoring access to our campus, in compliance with our State directives, County restrictions, and Archdiocesan guidance. I will communicate steps for moving forward with prudence and safety. As the parish leadership attains necessary supplies, establishes policies and procedures, and crafts necessary communication for you, I ask for your continued patience. I highly discourage traveling to other counties and parishes, that might reduce the effectiveness of the safety measures in place and challenge their ability to offer limited services.

While we have received preliminary expectations and guidance from the Archdiocese in accordance with the State directives, we await further clarification. I want to assure you that we are preparing and planning in the hopes of gradually being able to offer outdoor confessions, prayer, and adoration in the Church, and the celebrations of funerals, weddings, and baptisms with controlled numbers of people.

For those who are among the high-risk populations and those who prefer to be cautious, the Archbishop has extended the dispensation of participating in Sunday mass. There will not be any expectations placed upon parishioners in the coming days or weeks ahead. For those who regularly serve in ministries, we may reach out to you, but with neither pressure nor expectation that you serve until you are comfortable and feel safe doing so.

Please continue to pray for those struggling in this pandemic: for those who are sick with Coronavirus or other illnesses, for those who are mourning the loss of loved ones, for those who have lost work or are looking for work, for those who are missing or delaying celebrations including our graduates, and for those who are heroically working each day that we might have good health care, access to needed services, food and groceries, and support.

Thank you. I encourage you to remain committed to growth as disciples and aiding us as we seek to live out the mission entrusted to our parish by the Lord.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help, pray for us.

Live Jesus in our hearts, forever.

Rev. Michael S. Triplett

May 10, 2020

Brothers and Sisters,

Happy Mothers’ Day!

Let us give thanks and praise to our tender and compassionate God, who gave us our mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, aunts, and motherly figures so that we might know the love of God. The care of our mothers is often our first lesson on the meaning of love. In these challenging times, our mothers often provide the best witness of generosity as they provide for their family’s physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Thank you, mothers, for your faith-filled witness, which is a blessing along with our fathers as the first teachers of the faith.

My mother is truly a source of grace in my life. I remember the many ways she has taught and formed me. She has undoubtedly placed the needs of her seven children before her own. To stretch our family funds, she would spend hours clipping coupons from the Sunday paper and shop the sales, so we always had the blessings of a full table (and belly). And despite the pull and responsibility that goes hand-in-hand with raising a large family, my mom continually sought to fulfill the needs of her neighbors as well. For many years, she taught Sunday morning bible school. As her youngest entered school, she served as both a second-grade Teacher’s Aid and a Religious Education catechist for Sacred Heart School and Parish in Glyndon. My mom was involved in the formation of almost every first communicant at Sacred Heart for fifteen years. Her heart for service extended to the local pregnancy center too, where she answered support calls, praying, and intervening for life before an abortion clinic.

Before I was born, my mother was engaged in a women’s bible study, a small faith community of women, most of whom still meet weekly to this day. My mother would wake early to read and pray with the Scriptures. She recognizes the importance of making time with the Lord and continued spiritual growth. She has lived out the call described by Peter, “You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of his own, so that you may announce the praises’ of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.'” Thanks, Mom, for your witness — you are an inspiration! And, to mothers who call OLPH Parish home, thank you for your witness to the Lord Jesus, and dedication to the way, truth, and life. I offer special gratitude and sincere thanks to those among us who have answered the call to adopt or foster children, expanding your homes and hope into our world at the same time.

Join me in offering prayers for all expectant mothers, as well as married couples trying to start a family but struggling to conceive. We also lift in prayer those dealing with increased anxiety and for Parents seeking creative and meaningful ways to acknowledge milestones in their children’s lives. These including graduations, marriages, ordinations (our prayers for Deacon Jeremy’s parents as they wait to celebrate), and the births of their grandchildren. Thank you for your commitment to raising your children’s’ spirits, all while dealing with the uneasiness of these troubling times.

In May, our parish had hoped to highlight the experiences and opportunities of the Third Order or Associations to religious communities. In embracing charisms and teachings, these lay vocations offer an opportunity for more profound formation. Our parishioners are in communities of Dominicans, Franciscans, Carmelites, Marian Servants, among others. Choosing to enter a lay order is to discern a call from God, that entails embracing aspects of religious formation and living into their daily lives. Thanks for your witness; I hope that we might offer our parishioners an opportunity to hear your stories, and potentially follow the path.

This past week, many in our Baltimore community were saddened to hear of the Institute of Notre Dame (IND) impending closure. The Sisters of Notre Dame, along with the alumnae, teachers, and staff, sought to form and educate young ladies as disciples who transform the world and our culture. IND, the oldest women’s Catholic high school in Baltimore, has had a tremendous positive impact on our city and their neighborhood. Their absence will create an enormous void. Please pray for the students and families affected by this difficult decision.

The total financial impact on our Catholic parishes, schools, and institutions by the pandemic is yet to be known. I will share as a Board Member of the Msgr. O’Dwyer Retreat House in Baltimore County, that since the restriction of COVID-19 the Retreat House remains empty and income is almost non-existent. The Retreat House, which has formed and shaped so many youth and young adults, relies now on the Msgr. O’Dwyer Annual Appeal and a raffle as the primary source of funding for the facility and employees. If you would like to support the Retreat House, you may purchase a ticket here or through me at mtriplett@archbalt.org.

Likewise, our parish has also felt the financial impact of our current times. Yet, in the midst of our situation, our Parish Family remains generous in her gifts of prayer, financial support, and resources for, neighbor. Please accept my deepest gratitude for your generosity of heart. Your gifts help us to manage our expenses, including retaining our entire parish staff, while also committed to our sister parishes and the needs of our community. If you would now like to support the parish with a gift, consider our secure online giving option. Today, on Mother’s Day, as your pastor, I take inspiration from Our Lady of Perpetual Help, my mom, and you — thank you!

In the Risen Lord,

Rev. Michael S. Triplett

May 3, 2020

Brothers and Sisters,

Happy Good Shepherd Sunday! The title for this 4th Sunday of Easter comes from John Chapter 10, in which Jesus intentionally associates himself with the shepherd, “I am the good shepherd.” When we think of heroic figures or those we’d often ascribe with the adjective “good,” shepherds would be low on the list. For the contemporaries of Jesus, shepherds were literally and figuratively on the margins of society. When Samuel came, seeking to anoint the next king (1 Samuel 16:11), David, the youngest son of Jesse was not even present. David, placed in the care of the flock, was not deemed essential until finally called upon by Samuel.

The shepherd does not desire acknowledgment or recognition nor cower in fear or threat to the flock. The shepherd does commit to protecting and feeding the flock. As priests, we would be wise to remember the humble status of the shepherd. Historically, there were indeed periods when priests were clearly among the educated or privileged of society. Today, our parishioners often exceed our intellectual abilities, and even in theology or scripture, parishioners have spent lifetimes deepening their knowledge and experience. The role of a pastor is not about asserting a false superiority. With a passionate desire to stay close to his people, it’s about being present in the times of celebration, hardship, and sadness of human experiences. I am blessed to be able to celebrate all of your accomplishments in building the kingdom of God and living out the call to discipleship. Your commitment to growing in your faith is admirable and inspiring to me.

At the beginning of his pontificate, Pope Francis emphasized the need for priests to “smell like their flocks,” calling us to be fundamentally present. These challenging days for all of us reminds me of the need to remain connected. I am grateful to those of you who are reaching out, in gratitude, in concern, in question, or in need of prayers. We remain committed to growing as shepherds and appreciate the incredible support that our Parish family has provided.

This past Friday, May 1^st, Archbishop Gomez lead our nation alongside our northern Canadian neighbors to renew our consecration to Mary, the Immaculate Conception. Under the title, Mary, Mother of the Church, we implore her help and protection. Please join us in this month dedicated to Mary to renew our love and devotion to our Mother. Our spiritual Mother’s heart longs for our healing and wholeness as a community, but above all that we might come to her son Jesus to be fed and nourished.

Next Sunday, May 10th, at the conclusion of the 9 am Mass, we will crown Mary as queenship, mother of the Church while praying and renewing our parish consecration to Mary. While you may join our live stream Crowning of Mary in the parish Rosary Garden, we encourage you, in your home, to offer flowers before a statue or favorite Marian image or print. Families may choose to gather flowers from their garden or follow this video tutorial offered HERE by our parish school art teacher, Ms. King to craft your own flowers. So that we may celebrate the beauty of our parish, please be sure to snap a pic of your in-home offering to Mary and we invite you to share that image on our OLPH Facebook page after the event. As we also celebrate Mother’s Day next Sunday, please do share the great ways you have celebrated your mom, spiritual moms, and motherly figures, of course, without spoiling any planned surprises!

In closing, please remember in prayer our Parish Administrator, Lisa Sliker, who celebrated her birthday this weekend. I am personally very grateful for the many ways she guides and cares for our parish and the mission of the Church. She has a deep love for this parish and a passion for helping us all grow in discipleship. In these challenging times, her guidance and support have been irreplaceable.

In the Risen Lord,

Rev. Michael S. Triplett

April 19, 2020

Brothers and Sisters,

“Peace be with you.” The Octave of Easter celebrate that unique third day, when the Lord rose from the dead. That day is so important that the Church dedicates these 8 days to celebrating with special solemnity and the whole 50 days of Easter to celebrate the mystery of the Resurrection, as well as every Sunday, the day of the Resurrection. While we probably imagine our great joy and courage in proclaiming the Gospel had we been present on that first day and the Lord appeared to us, the responses of the disciples were varied. In the various Gospel accounts, Jesus approaches two disciples who heard rumors of the Resurrection leaving town; his appearance is not easily accepted even by the apostles, who experience hardness of heart. In the Gospel of John, Jesus appears twice to the disciples gathered in a locked room. On the first occasion, Thomas is not present with them. A week later, Jesus once again enters, even though the doors were locked. If the apostles experienced the Resurrection, why are they still cowering in fear? From the experience of Good Friday and the fear they experienced, many of the disciples need time to contemplate the Resurrection and the impact on their lives. They struggled to experience the joys and peace that Jesus promises. Please be patient with yourselves, with your families, and with one another, as we strive to trust in the Lord’s great mercy won for us on the cross.

Many of us are in a place of questioning, as we seek to discover where is the Lord’s mercy during this pandemic. Fr. James Martin, a Jesuit priest, offers the most honest answer in the New York Times article “Where is God in a Pandemic?” (www.nytimes.com/2020/03/22/opinion/coronavirus-religion.html). The honest answer is that we do not know. We do hopefully know and believe in a merciful and loving God. We ought to come to experience Jesus in a personal way, as he chose to come to dwell among us and to understand the whole gambit of human life. Trusting in God’s mercy is not about having the answers. Our response to suffering and our current predicament is not to offer a simple answer. Our witness is the Lord Jesus, who walks beside and accompanies us in this difficult time. Keep calling out for the Lord and when you recognize his presence, give thanks for the goodness of a merciful God.

For our parents who are struggling as you seek to comfort and console your children, please know of our prayers. For mothers who are expecting, fathers and families, we are often conflicted with the extremes of joyful anticipation and cautious anxiety in these worrisome times. Continue to center your lives in prayer. For those seeking help with speaking to your children, I recommend the attached eBook from Dr. Pat Fosarelli, How to Talk to Children and Youth about COVID-19 (April 2020, Twenty-Third Publications). Dr. Pat Fosarelli, a former practicing Pediatrician, is the Associate Dean and Professor at The Ecumenical Institute of St. Mary’s Seminary & University in Baltimore.

Our livestreaming experiences will follow this routine, (click the link for the full schedule):
▫ Sunday Mass | 9:00am
▫ Daily Mass, Monday to Wednesday, Friday & Saturday | 8:30am
▫ Daily Mass, Thursday | 9:30am
▫ Wednesdays & Thursdays | 12 Noon to 3pm Adoration in the Good Shepherd Chapel
▫ Fridays | 5pm to 8pm Adoration in the Good Shepherd Chapel

In the Risen Lord,

Rev. Michael S. Triplett

April 12, 2020

Brothers and Sisters,

“Peace be with you.” This, the greeting of the risen Lord given to his disciples is the words that he also offers to you, to your families, and to your neighborhoods. Jesus is drawing near. Like Thomas, you may feel as if you have been left out. You may hear moments of powerful encounters with the Lord while struggling with lingering uncertainty. You may have doubts that Jesus is actually present amidst our hardships, our worries, our hunger, or in our exhaustion and sickness that you or your loved ones might be experiencing. Like the two, heading out on the road to Emmaus, you may not recognize him, except in the burning of your hearts and in the breaking of the bread.

There were no witnesses to the Resurrection, other than the Lord God. No one was present. According to the Gospel accounts, Mary Magdalene was among other women who were the first to arrive at the empty tomb. An empty tomb was the first encounter of hope. If you or your family are experiencing an emptiness of any kind, know that this is a space in which the Lord of life can enter. Let us implore the Lord together for the great virtue of hope.

Jesus then appears to Mary Magdalene, though she does not at first recognize him. Be patient with yourselves if you are having difficulty recognizing the risen Jesus in your midst. If you are mourning, he is weeping beside you. If you are frightened, he’s encouraging you to look to him as the source of safety. If you are exhausted and burdened with many worries, allow him to be your strength.

When Mary Magdalene comes to recognize the Lord, she shares her amazing discovery with the Apostles, as she is often called the Apostle to the Apostles – no surprise for many of us that a woman was among one the first evangelists. Like she, we are called to share. Your experiences of faith and hope could be a needed glimpse of light that allows another to experience the warmth of Christ. Your encounter may encourage others to look more closely – like Peter and John, as they hastily ran to the tomb. How are you worshipping the Lord within your homes? With so much of the regular day-to-day on pause, how has this time been one of renewal and grace? Where in your lives can you witness the garden of the Resurrection accompanied by signs of hope?

Know that wherever we are physically, spiritually, emotionally, or psychologically, nothing can keep us from the love of Christ. Even with locked doors, the Risen Jesus time-and-time again enters the room where the disciples are hiding in wait. Though current circumstances have left our own Church physically locked, the doors of grace and mercy are wide open. Jesus continues to feed and nourish you and your families. Always faithful, he draws close.

Easter is often a time of recognition and thanks. I normally would express gratitude for the decorations and the cleanliness of our Church and campus (Fr. Rob, Deacon Jeremy, and I are doing our best). I should be expressing gratitude for all our Parishioners who offer their gifts in service filling so many roles in the liturgy. Or, our talented and dedicated musicians and choir who work extremely hard at rehearsing so their music and voices can lead us all in song and praise in our time of worship together.

In these extraordinary times, I truly need to extend thanks in equal proportion. I need to say “thank you” so much more than usual. In the midst of the disruptions to your “normal” routines along with the challenges of working from home, while assisting your kids with school, or helping an aging parent stay safe and fed; you all have stepped up! Our Parish family has not only decorated the pews of our Church but so many among you have decorated your homes with worship spaces, so we may more fully celebrate together. As I read the comments section of our live-streamed Masses; I’m struck by how many of you are still serving as Ministers of Hospitality by welcoming others at the start and close of our virtual time in worship. And, as you read and proclaim the Scriptures in your homes, you all are serving as lectors. And while I cannot be certain as I have no listening devices, I imagine you are singing from your hearts in your homes as well. Of course, I also need to thank our musicians, singers, and technical gurus who have been able to pull together some amazing pieces of music, by recording from their own homes. From the bottom of my heart, thank you! You are all helping one another to give a worthy celebration to the Easter celebration.

I am also grateful to our parish staff, who have been working extremely hard to remain connected with our Parish family. Without their support, care, collaboration, and encouragement, our response would have been far less. Fr. Rob and Lisa have been a particularly strong support to me, helping in sharing the load of leadership while feeding you. Moreover, our partnership with Henderson Creative, our own passionate and committed parishioners Evelyn and Scott, have helped us produce some wonderful content. Their technical expertise and knowledge with communications and marketing have helped us with our streaming, organization of our digital content, and communication clarity.

While streaming and recordings will always be inferior to gathering physically in the Church, we hope you have been able to remain connected to us, while recognizing Christ’s abundant graces amidst our challenges.

We aim to develop a stronger routine of prayer and worship together! Please join me for:

(click the link for the full schedule):

▫ Sunday Mass | 9:00am

▫ Octave of Easter, Monday to Saturday, April 13-18 | 8:30am Daily Mass

▫ Wednesdays & Thursdays | 12 Noon to 3pm Adoration in the Good Shepherd Chapel

▫ Fridays | 5pm to 8pm Adoration in the Good Shepherd Chapel

In an effort to savor the joy of Christ’s resurrection, it is our intention to slow down slightly after Easter Sunday (at least for the week). Let us rest in our celebration of the Risen Christ.

I encourage our parishioners, family, friends, and virtual visitors, to continue to practice good prudence – a heroic virtue in this time of, pandemic. Our simple rhythm of life, following sound advice and remaining home as we are able, is a pro-Life act of mercy. Let us bear these challenges with fortitude, even though we may need to vent on occasion, to help save lives and reduce this illness. Let us praise the Lord this Easter Season:

You are God: we praise you;
You are Lord: we acclaim you;
You are the eternal Father:
All creation worships you.
V. Lord, show us your love and mercy; R. for we put our trust in you.
V. In you, Lord, is our hope: R. and we shall never hope in vain.

Christ is risen! Truly he is risen!

Rev. Michael S. Triplett

April 12, 2020

Brothers and Sisters,

We aim to develop a stronger routine of prayer and worship together! Please join me for:

(click the link for the full schedule):

▫ Sunday Mass | 9:00am

▫ Octave of Easter, Monday to Saturday, April 13-18 | 8:30am Daily Mass

▫ Wednesdays & Thursdays | 12 Noon to 3pm Adoration in the Good Shepherd Chapel

▫ Fridays | 5pm to 8pm Adoration in the Good Shepherd Chapel

In an effort to savor the joy of Christ’s resurrection, it is our intention to slow down slightly after Easter Sunday (at least for the week). Let us rest in our celebration of the Risen Christ.

Christ is risen! Truly he is risen!

Rev. Michael S. Triplett

APRIL 3, 2020, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Palm Sunday

Brothers and Sisters,

Greetings of peace and prayers in these unprecedented times. In last Sunday’s Gospel, Thomas speaks up, aware that going to Bethany near Jerusalem is dangerous, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.” (John 11:16). Thomas is often remembered for his weakest moment, in which he doubts the Resurrection. Yet, we find him willing to stay with the Lord even in the face of unknown dangers.

As a Church, we are preparing for the holiest days in the Church year, in which we celebrate the greatest mysteries of the Eucharist, the Passion and Death of our Lord, and the Resurrection. All while facing challenging times together. Are we able to put aside our fears, our worries and anxieties, our suffering, to journey with the Lord to the Cross, where redemption and grace are waiting? This is not an easy question to answer. Even when we answer by our own strength, like most of the apostles and disciples did before us, by denying, abandoning, or dispersing, the Lord’s grace invites us to experience redemption.

This Lent, our journey was focused on praising the Lord. With reflections written by the staff even before we knew what we’d be facing and experiencing as a Parish Family. Regardless, as I pray with these reflections, I am amazed at the powerful message. Praise is simply not reserved in times when everything is going well. We praise the Lord for who he is. We praise the Lord for his goodness, beauty, and truth. We praise, knowing the reality of his enduring faithfulness. I want to personally thank our parishioners for gathering as families, small groups, and through digital media, to pray together and lift one another up.

While we are not able to physically gather, the Holy Spirit continues to unite us in prayer and worship of our God. Please consider ways your family will enter into Holy Week. For Palm Sunday, a classmate of mine from Portland, Maine, suggested “Pine Sunday” (as they have ample pine trees); we encourage you to cut a green branch from the yard, and place on your front door as a reminder of our worship and laying down the branches in exultation as the Lord Jesus enters. Families could also make palms by cutting strips of paper.

For the Triduum, I encourage families to prepare the space in their homes for worship. Like the homemade “palms” or alternative branches from the yard, consider the symbols for each day and create a focus for the family to worship. On Holy Thursday, you might have bread and grapes in a basket or as that night’s great gesture of washing of the feet, you might have a symbol that represents a charity you are involved in (salt or oatmeal for SALT, can goods for SVDP, or an item that reminds you of the great service of love). On Good Friday, place the family cross or crucifix at a central location and consider genuflecting to the cross at different times in the day. For the Easter Vigil or Easter Sunday, place a candle, a deep reminder that in these dark times, the light of Christ conquers all, or a bowl of water, representing our longing for the Sacraments, and as the words that are often prayed as the water is blessed, “unseal for her (the Church) the fountain of Baptism (our entry into the sacramental life).” Create your own “Triduum Kit” and share your creativity on social media for how you are entering into the most holy days with your family, friends, neighbors, the parish, and the whole world.

As the bystanders laid down palm branches on the ground to celebrate the triumphant entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem, I request that families who are in a stable position financially consider supporting our parish efforts and sign up for online giving at olphparish.org/giving. You may elect a one-time gift or set your recurring gifts to aid our continued efforts to live out the mission entrusted to us by our Lord Jesus Christ, to serve His people and fulfill the Great Commission. Your generosity is symbolic of palms offered, eagerly requesting the Lord to enter into our town, our community, our neighborhoods and our homes. Our staff is working extremely hard to keep our Parish Family connected, offer pastoral care, serve the poor and to continue to feed our Parish Family spiritually. As best stewards of your gifts entrusted to us, we have cut back on our campus operating expenses in every area possible without the intent to furlough or terminate employees. Parish staff members offer many sacrifices to serve the Church, we honor that dedication and desire to remain committed to supporting them and their families. Moreover, the Archdiocese has been a big help by forgiving some recurring bills; while they are working to support the financial health of many parishes within the Archdiocese, for there are many needs.

Thank you to the many who have mailed their weekly offertory gifts directly to the parish which we collect from the mailbox daily, as well as those who have transitioned to online giving. We are humbled by these steadfast commitments and grateful for your continued gifts. With your help, along with tapping parish savings, we will weather this storm, TOGETHER. We may mourn and be sad, but I remain optimistic in the hope of the Resurrection to bring renewed life and celebration.

As we remain in hope, my heart is moved deeply by an outpouring of love and support, as well as your praise of the Lord and desire to be united in our Church to worship together. This season will pass, while we wait, I invite you, along with your family, friends, and neighbors, to join together digitally, committed to celebrating these special days with solemnity. To connect, visit facebook.com/olphchurch for live stream events and Mass. Please note, previously recording may be viewed at olphparish.org/live-mass. Also, check out olphparish.org/media for the teachings and messages we have been offering and will continue to offer. To increase our reach, I’d encourage you to subscribe to our YouTube channel with the hope you will be able to stream Mass directly to your smart TV.

Please mark your calendar for our upcoming Holy Week and Easter live-stream liturgies or click the link for the full schedule:

Sunday, April 5 | 9:00am Mass for Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion
Wednesday, April 8 | 12 Noon to 3pm Adoration in the Good Shepherd Chapel
Holy Thursday, April 9 | 7:00pm Mass of the Lord’s Supper with Adoration of the Lord in the Tabernacle until Night Prayer with Fr. Mike and Fr. Rob at 10:00pm
Good Friday, April 10 | 8:30am Morning Prayer and
3:00pm Celebration of the Lord’s Passion with Adoration of the Cross until 5:00pm
Holy Saturday, April 11 | 8:30am Morning Prayer
8:15pm Easter Vigil Mass
Easter Sunday, April 12 | 9:00am Easter Mass
Octave of Easter, Monday to Saturday, April 13-18 | 8:30am Daily Mass
Sundays during the Easter Season | 9:00am Mass

Reminder: Our current live-stream broadcasted in real-time and all previously recorded videos can be viewed at https://olphparish.org/live-mass.

May the Lord Jesus, the light of the world, conquer the darkness of these troubling times and protect and heal our world.

In the Lord,

Rev. Michael S. Triplett

Our Lady of Perpetual Help…Pray for us
Jesus in our Hearts….forever

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APRIL 3, 2020, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Palm Sunday

Brothers and Sisters,

Please mark your calendar for our upcoming Holy Week and Easter live-stream liturgies or click the link for the full schedule:

Sunday, April 5 | 9:00am Mass for Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion
Wednesday, April 8 | 12 Noon to 3pm Adoration in the Good Shepherd Chapel
Holy Thursday, April 9 | 7:00pm Mass of the Lord’s Supper with Adoration of the Lord in the Tabernacle until Night Prayer with Fr. Mike and Fr. Rob at 10:00pm
Good Friday, April 10 | 8:30am Morning Prayer and
3:00pm Celebration of the Lord’s Passion with Adoration of the Cross until 5:00pm
Holy Saturday, April 11 | 8:30am Morning Prayer
8:15pm Easter Vigil Mass
Easter Sunday, April 12 | 9:00am Easter Mass
Octave of Easter, Monday to Saturday, April 13-18 | 8:30am Daily Mass
Sundays during the Easter Season | 9:00am Mass

Reminder: Our current live-stream broadcasted in real-time and all previously recorded videos can be viewed at https://olphparish.org/live-mass.

May the Lord Jesus, the light of the world, conquer the darkness of these troubling times and protect and heal our world.

In the Lord,

Rev. Michael S. Triplett

Our Lady of Perpetual Help…Pray for us
Jesus in our Hearts….forever

###

APRIL 3, 2020, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Palm Sunday

Brothers and Sisters,

Please mark your calendar for our upcoming Holy Week and Easter live-stream liturgies or click the link for the full schedule:

Sunday, April 5 | 9:00am Mass for Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion
Wednesday, April 8 | 12 Noon to 3pm Adoration in the Good Shepherd Chapel
Holy Thursday, April 9 | 7:00pm Mass of the Lord’s Supper with Adoration of the Lord in the Tabernacle until Night Prayer with Fr. Mike and Fr. Rob at 10:00pm
Good Friday, April 10 | 8:30am Morning Prayer and
3:00pm Celebration of the Lord’s Passion with Adoration of the Cross until 5:00pm
Holy Saturday, April 11 | 8:30am Morning Prayer
8:15pm Easter Vigil Mass
Easter Sunday, April 12 | 9:00am Easter Mass
Octave of Easter, Monday to Saturday, April 13-18 | 8:30am Daily Mass
Sundays during the Easter Season | 9:00am Mass

Reminder: Our current live-stream broadcasted in real-time and all previously recorded videos can be viewed at https://olphparish.org/live-mass.

May the Lord Jesus, the light of the world, conquer the darkness of these troubling times and protect and heal our world.

In the Lord,

Rev. Michael S. Triplett

Our Lady of Perpetual Help…Pray for us
Jesus in our Hearts….forever

###

APRIL 3, 2020, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Palm Sunday

Brothers and Sisters,

Please mark your calendar for our upcoming Holy Week and Easter live-stream liturgies or click the link for the full schedule:

Sunday, April 5 | 9:00am Mass for Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion
Wednesday, April 8 | 12 Noon to 3pm Adoration in the Good Shepherd Chapel
Holy Thursday, April 9 | 7:00pm Mass of the Lord’s Supper with Adoration of the Lord in the Tabernacle until Night Prayer with Fr. Mike and Fr. Rob at 10:00pm
Good Friday, April 10 | 8:30am Morning Prayer and
3:00pm Celebration of the Lord’s Passion with Adoration of the Cross until 5:00pm
Holy Saturday, April 11 | 8:30am Morning Prayer
8:15pm Easter Vigil Mass
Easter Sunday, April 12 | 9:00am Easter Mass
Octave of Easter, Monday to Saturday, April 13-18 | 8:30am Daily Mass
Sundays during the Easter Season | 9:00am Mass

Reminder: Our current live-stream broadcasted in real-time and all previously recorded videos can be viewed at https://olphparish.org/live-mass.

May the Lord Jesus, the light of the world, conquer the darkness of these troubling times and protect and heal our world.

In the Lord,

Rev. Michael S. Triplett

Our Lady of Perpetual Help…Pray for us
Jesus in our Hearts….forever

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MARCH 30, 2020, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

“I command you: be firm and steadfast! Do not fear nor be dismayed, for the Lord, your God, is with you wherever you go.”

– Joshua 1:90

My dear OLPH parish family,

Though we perhaps all had anticipated Governor Hogan’s most recent Executive Order issued today, March 30th, I still pause as I write these words, considering how quickly our local and national landscape has shifted since Maryland’s first reported case of COVID-19. The spread of this virus and the resulting disease has touched everyone in the most practical and profound ways. With each new challenge, I have witnessed great resolve, resilience, and kindness among our Parish family. And like any healthy family that becomes separated from one another, each member is missed, loved, and valued.

With those sentiments in mind, along with the clear and strong leadership demonstrated by our Governor and Archbishop Lori, we will be closing OLPH’s physical campus effective 8:00 PM this evening to ensure the utmost safety of our beloved family members. On a human level, my heart is heavy in sharing this news. However, I trust and believe God is with us always. He is with us, as together we learn new and virtual ways to stay connected, worship and continue to encounter His Love. He is with us as we discover opportunities for gratitude in areas of our lives that we might have previously taken for granted. Most importantly, He is with us as we patiently wait and weather this storm with faith and trust together.

Though our physical campus may be closed for the near future, our virtual Church and channels of communication remain OPEN. We are committed to nurturing you in love of God, love of neighbor and as a disciple of Christ.

In the Lord,

Fr. Mike Triplett

Our Lady of Perpetual Help…Pray for us

Jesus in our Hearts….forever

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MARCH 29, 2020, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

So he got up and went back to his father.
While he was still a long way off,
his father caught sight of him,
and was filled with compassion.
He ran to his son,
embraced him
and kissed him.

-Luke 15:20

Mercy. The Lord is full of mercy. Jesus is the face of the Father; if we know Jesus, we know the Father. The Holy Spirit connects us to this great mystery, bringing us into an encounter with the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit!

In the Parable of the Merciful Father (often called the Prodigal Son), the Father shows his eagerness to bestow mercy in an extravagant way. Not once, but twice. After having left behind his family with the inheritance that he had demanded, the first son rehearses his contrition, his plea for mercy. His expectations, or hope, rests that his Father might treat him as one of the hired hands, or servants. He has no expectation of being restored as a Son, an heir once more, for he knows that he is undeserving. Yet the Father barely lets him get off a word, and practicality ignores his request for forgiveness, as he forgives in such complete and total way – beyond our human understanding.

Of course, the elder son, who felt superior to his brother as he had remained by his father’s side, refusing to come into the celebration for his brother’s return. In fact, he refers to his brother as “your son”, refusing to restore him as a brother. His coldness and lack of forgiveness prevented him from entering into a more intimate relationship with the Father. Once again, the Father in a grand gesture humbles himself and humbly meets his child where he is, imploring him to understand and experience the abundance of mercy.

The Church desires to continue this great work of mercy, eager to offer God’s grace in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. In line with the Universal Church and the Archdiocese of Baltimore, Fr. Rob and I are eager to share this encounter between you and Jesus, the face of the Merciful Father. In our humanity, God gave us this sacrament because he knew we needed to hear these words, “I absolve you from your sins…” We long for the embrace, captured beautifully by Rembrandt in his painting of the Prodigal Son. In light of that teaching, the Church has reaffirmed that we cannot experience the Sacrament of Reconciliation remotely, or digitally.

In addressing the Sacrament of Reconciliation, realizing there are places where it is not possible to receive this the sacrament at this time, Pope Francis encouraged all faithful to examine their consciences (Check out olphparish.org/our-parish-life/sacraments/reconciliation/ for one example of a good examination and how-to guide). If the Sacrament is not available or you do not feel safe going at this time, pray to our Heavenly Father, who hears and answers us. First, offer an Act of Contrition. Second, make it your intention to go to confession, as soon as it is available or safe.

Join Us for “In & Out Confessions

As a region (most of Howard and Carroll County), we are committed to offering the Sacrament of Reconciliation on Monday, March 30 and Monday, April 6, from 10 am to 12 Noon, 2 pm to 4 pm, and 5 pm to 7 pm. If you prefer to experience the sacrament with another priest, we encourage you to confirm times with the parish website or by reaching out to that parish in advance.

In an eagerness to offer the Sacrament, in the safest way possible, Fr. Rob and I will be rotating, hearing confessions “In & Out”. While one is hearing confessions in the Church in the Reconciliation rooms, the other will be outside for confession. We understand that many people are not comfortable entering the Church at this time, even when there are less than 10 people (which we are absolutely holding too!). For outdoor confessions, we encourage you to enter our campus from the School-side (closer to Landing Road). Drive past the playground, where there will be a welcome sign along with these basic instructions. As your car enters the “queue”; we hope the lines will not be too long, but ask for your patience, as you begin the line at the designated sign. This will allow adequate distance so that the privacy of the confession can be maintained. When it is your turn, please drive up to the designated spot. Park your car, roll down the window and turn off the car. The priest will be seated 8 feet away, but close enough to celebrate the sacrament properly. If the lines are long, we will ask you to make your Act of Contrition afterward, as you likewise complete your penance. We also ask that you be mindful of others; if there are long lines, realize we will not have time for extended counsel or advice.

What do I do if I come to confession with my family?

This is a great question. We will have a designated area for cars with groups or families. When your car has come beside the priest, for the family to exit the car, stand farther away (again, for privacy), and one by one sit in a chair, also 8 feet from the priest.

When you’ve finished your confession and received absolution, or when your entire family is complete, simply drive off around the side of the Church. If you’d like to stop for prayer, you are welcome to drive around the circle of the Church and pray. From the circle, you can often see the Tabernacle, or during periods of Adoration, the Blessed Sacrament on the altar. Even if you are not coming for Reconciliation, you are welcome at any time to stop and pray from the safety of your car; please be mindful of keeping the prayer short if a line develops in the circle.

Thank you for your patience and flexibility. We know you are eager to encounter the Lord in these unprecedented times and we are thankful to still be able to offer this sacrament of mercy.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help, pray for us.

Live Jesus in our hearts, forever.

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MARCH 25, 2020, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Be still and know that I am God
Be still and know that I am
Be still and know
Be still
Be

-Cf. Psalm 46

Stillness.

In this unprecedented time, stillness is probably not been part of your reality. As families, children are running about, trying to adapt to a new routine, and learning by means of the latest technology – which admittedly those with good tech skills are having to navigate. College students have returned home, in order to complete courses online. Adults are working remotely, trying to figure out new technology or apps also, while trying to keep up with their children and help them to learn.

We are witnessing though a beautiful outpouring of faith and prayer through digital platforms. People are gathering to pray rosaries, divine chaplets, and novenas. People are participating in web meetings, video conferencing or teleconferencing, to stay connected and engaged. I have seen wonderful glimpses for acts of charity, in creative (and safe) ways.

Sadly, I have also recently noticed an increase in “dangerous messages”. Some clips are claiming a simple prevention to the coronavirus even described with religious language. Other messages preach the latest version of the “prosperity gospel,” which will often point to calamities as signs of God’s wrath at the sinfulness of our culture and the beginning of the end times. The prosperity gospel claims that God protects the devout from any harm or illness, and you can tell when you are truly faithful because God will provide all that you need. Riches and resources are seen as a sign of God’s blessing. But we know God allows the rain to fall on the just and the unjust. We should not take anyone sick with the coronavirus or any other illness as a sign that they lack faith. Miracles are real; miracles are not from our efforts. And a lack of a physical miracle does not mean that God is not miraculously present and involved.

We need stillness. Stillness is a gift from God. Stillness does not mean that the environment is quiet (though that can help, it’s not necessary). I encourage everyone to take time for stillness each day, in quiet prayer that asks the Holy Spirit to help us put aside worry, curiosity, and the noises of our life. Let us simply be in God’s presence for a few minutes a day (and grow that to 24 hours a day!).

With the latest directives from the State and the guidance from the Archdiocese, we understand that we may maintain the Church being open for prayer, adoration from Wednesday to Saturday, and offering the sacrament of reconciliation. From this point forward though, our office building will be closed; yet, our staff is hard at work continuing the mission. As we continue work from homes, we still receive voice messages from the office line (410-474-4334) as well as e-mail addresses. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Please also view video below:

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MARCH 18, 2020, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

COMMUNICATION UPDATE

Brothers and Sisters, though our current landscape may seem foreign, remember that we belong to the Body of Christ and nothing can separate us from the love of God [Romans 8:38]!

Please see the following opportunities to experience community, healing, and hope at OLPH Parish. With deep caring, we remind Parishioners who are unwell for any reason to remain at home.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR PRAYER IN THE CHURCH

Please know the Church building will remain open for prayer.

HOURS:
Monday thru Saturday – 7 am-8 pm (VizPin users will be able to access the church between 8 pm-7 am)
Sunday – 10:30 am – 8 pm

Please be encouraged to take home a copy of our TeDeum Weekly Lenten Reflections as well as a copy of the Way of the Cross booklet which includes images of OLPH’s own Station of the Cross bronze installations.

CONFESSIONS

In order to comply with the latest CDC Guidelines issued March 14, 2020, please take note of the directional signage located in the Nave detailing visitor-flow and how to maintain a head-count under ten persons. THANK YOU!

We are pleased to offer the Sacrament of Confession at the following times.

Hours for Confessions:
Wednesdays 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Fridays 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm
Saturdays 3:00 pm – 4:15 pm

STATIONS OF THE CROSS

Our traditional praying of the Stations of the Cross will be made available for video viewing via our Facebook Page and website homepage on Friday, March 20th, 2020. It is our goal to have this media posted by 2:30 PM, but this time may vary.

ADORATION

For our visitor’s wellbeing and to best comply with the new recommended guidelines for proper social distancing, Adoration will be held in the main Nave of the Church to allow for ample distance among Adorers. Please do not share a pew with other visitors. Our Lord will be exposed in the monstrance and positioned on the altar. Adorers that must leave prior to the next scheduled Adorer’s arrival, may reverently cover the monstrance using the cloth available on the table just adjacent to the monstrance. Upon arrival, if the monstrance is covered, please gently remove the cloth, fold it, and place it on the small table next to the monstrance.

Hours of the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament:
9:00 am Wednesday through 8:00 am Saturday

THE MASS

Our Sunday, March 20th, 9 am Mass will be live-streamed:

To take part in the mass remotely and in real-time, please visit the OLPH Parish Facebook Page [https://www.facebook.com/olphchurch/] to view via Facebook Live. Once completed the recording will be uploaded and made available via our website here, https://olphparish.org/live-mass. The latter option should accommodate those without Facebook or who may not be available at 9:00 am to view the live recording. Remember, there will be an opportunity during mass to take part in a Spiritual Communion If you prefer a prewritten prayer, there are a number of options available, such as this prayer taught by a Priest to St. Josemaría Escrivá, “I wish, my Lord, to receive you, with the purity, humility, and devotion with which your most Holy Mother received you, with the spirit and fervor of the saints.” St. Alphonsus Liguori is the author of yet another option: “My Jesus, I believe that you are present in the Most Blessed Sacrament. I love You above all things and I desire to receive You into my soul. Since I cannot now receive You sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace You as if You were already there, and unite myself wholly to You. Never permit me to be separated from You. Amen.” These prayers mentioned may also be accessed HERE and at simplycatholic.com/spiritual-communion/ and www.ourcatholicprayers.com/spiritual-communion.html.

OFFICE HOURS

Monday to Friday, from 10 am to 2 pm
Staff is receiving and monitoring voice messages at other hours.

Please know that each Parishioner of OLPH remains on our hearts and in our constant prayers.

OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP, PRAY FOR US!

In the Lord,
Fr. Mike Triplett

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MARCH 14, 2020, 9:00PM

** IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT **
-TOMORROW’S COMMUNION DISTRIBUTION CANCELED-

“Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I shall give will never thirst; the water I shall give will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
Jesus is the living water filling us with life. With the woman at the well, we are eagerly asking, “Sir, give me this water, so that I may not be thirsty or have to keep coming here to draw water.”
As a parish staff, we know that you thirst for Christ. We appreciate the communications, and we eagerly sought a means to safely offer the Body of Christ to our flock. The Archbishop this evening has provided further direction, with the remarks, “My highest priority is the safety and welfare of the people of God of this Archdiocese. I take this step with great sadness, but also with a wholehearted determination that we continue to provide for the spiritual well-being of the faithful at a time when their faith is most needed.”

With new directives from the Archdiocese of Baltimore, all public masses including daily masses are hereby canceled. In accordance with those directives, our plans to distribute Communion this Sunday are canceled. Yet, even in our inability to gather for Mass or offer Communion, Christ’s gift of Himself is freely offered to each of us. We encourage you to participate with our live-streamed Mass at 9:00am,(via Facebook and later posted on our website https://olphparish.org/live-mass/) with the Archbishop’s live-streamed Mass at 11:00am from the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen (www.archbalt.org/online-mass/), or another Mass via the television, radio, or internet. Please offer a Spiritual Communion, inviting the Lord into your homes and your hearts.

At this time, the Church and Good Shepherd Chapel will remain open for prayer during the day. May the Lord of all grace strengthen us for the difficult road that likely lies ahead.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help, pray for us.
Live Jesus in our hearts, forever.

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MARCH 14, 2020, 5:00PM

** IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT **
– COMMUNION DISTRIBUTION DUE TO COVID-19 – CANCELED AS OF 9PM MARCH 14, 2020

Brothers and Sisters, may our Lord Jesus Christ draw you ever closer to him and to one another,

In ongoing discernment on how best to feed our parishioners spiritually, we are pleased to offer an option to physically receive Communion this Sunday, March 15th.

THE MASS

It is expected that you and your family will participate in the Celebration of the Eucharist this weekend in one of several ways prior to coming to OLPH to receive Communion physically:

View the OLPH Parish Facebook Live Stream of our 9:00am Mass. Fr Mike and Fr Rob will solely be in the Nave of our Church celebrating Mass at 9:00am. You are welcome to view via Facebook Live. Once completed the recording will be uploaded and made available via our website here, https://olphparish.org/live-mass. The latter option should accommodate those without Facebook or who may not be available at 9:00am to view the live recording.
Via other online sources. Please visit www.archbalt.org/online-mass/ for online Mass time and options.

ARRIVAL & COMMUNION DISTRIBUTION

Outdoor Communion distribution will be available on Sunday, March 15th from 10:30am to 12:30pm and again from 5:00pm until 6:30pm. Please arrive during either time frame!

When you arrive on campus, please park your car and then process to the front of the church. At that time, visitors will be greeted and offered directions. Then, Fr. Mike and Fr Rob will offer a short prayer and small groups will be invited to receive the Eucharist from our priests outdoors. We ask that you be patient with us and practice proper social distancing strategies as we ALL strive to offer Communion in a safe and responsible manner. Please, there is no need to arrive prior to 10:30am, the Nave of the church which will only be accessed by OLPH Staff and will not be open prior to 10:00am. We would also kindly ask that parents keep their families together and for their safety, please do not allow young children to stray.

SPIRITUAL COMMUNION

All parishioners are encouraged to offer a “spiritual communion” this weekend [March 14-15].

Spiritual communion is a personal prayer by which you invite Jesus into your lives. If you prefer a prewritten prayer, there are a number of options available, such as this prayer taught by a Priest to St. Josemaría Escrivá, “I wish, my Lord, to receive you, with the purity, humility, and devotion with which your most Holy Mother received you, with the spirit and fervor of the saints.” St. Alphonsus Liguori is the author of yet another option: “My Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love You above all things and I desire to receive You into my soul. Since I cannot now receive You sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace You as if You were already there, and unite myself wholly to You. Never permit me to be separated from You. Amen.”
These prayers mentioned may also be accessed at simplycatholic.com/spiritual-communion/ and www.ourcatholicprayers.com/spiritual-communion.html.

Please know the Church building will remain open for prayer and reflection during this coming week. We encourage all OLPH visitors to follow the suggested best-practices for maintaining proper social distancing and if you are unwell for any reason please remain at home. As difficult as these past days have been, coupled with the uncertainty of what is yet to come, please know that the spiritual and physical wellbeing of all our Parishioners is paramount to each decision we have made and those moving forward.

In the Lord,
Fr. Mike Triplett

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MARCH 13, 2020, 6:23PM

** IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT **
– SCHEDULE UPDATES DUE TO COVID-19 –

Brothers and Sisters,

Greetings in our Lord Jesus Christ, who unites us as one in his Body and by his Spirit. St. Paul often invoked greetings in the Lord to those communities that he had founded or encouraged during his missionary journeys. He had often spent time with them and had a strong bond of friendship as Christians, seeking to follow Jesus. Yet, he wrote as a means to maintain the connection with those communities to which he was no longer physically present and inspire them in their discipleship. In these coming days, we may not be physically present, and our time together may be limited but our hope is that we will maintain our unity as the Body of Christ, praying and growing together this Lent.

Our parish leadership has made the following decisions, in compliance with the directives of the State of Maryland, Howard County, and the Archdiocese of Baltimore.

Sunday Mass:
Archbishop Lori has dispensed all the faithful from the Sunday Mass obligation.
OLPH in solidarity with the parishes of St. Louis in Clarksville, St. Francis in Fulton, St. John in Columbia, Resurrection & St. Paul in Ellicott City, and St. Alphonsus in Woodstock, have canceled all Sunday Masses (including our Saturday vigil Masses) for both March 14-15 and 21-22 weekends. We do not take this decision lightly and we are heartbroken that we are unable to offer the Eucharist to our Parishioners, however, in an effort to remain united, this coming weekend (3/14-15) our 9am Sunday Mass will be live-streamed and distributed for viewing via our Facebook page. Please also know to help us sanctify our days and to keep us walking in the liturgical rhythm of the Church, we are honored to make the online version of MAGNIFICAT temporarily available to everyone for free.
Liturgical Gatherings: Daily Mass (Monday through Saturday), Confessions (Wednesday 6-7pm, Friday 4:30-6pm, and Saturday 3-4:15pm), Stations of the Cross (Friday 2:30 and 7pm), and Eucharistic Adoration will continue as planned. We encourage all parishioners especially those in high-risk populations to use prudence in their decision to participate.
Eucharist Adoration will follow our regular schedule from Wednesday 9:00am until Saturday at 8:00am and will be held in the Nave of the Church to allow for additional space for social distancing. Any Adorer not comfortable attending Eucharistic Adoration is lifted from their commitment.
Office Hours The parish office will remain open Monday 3/16, Tuesday 3/17 and Wednesday 3/18 from 9am to 4pm. In the coming days, we will consider a reduced office schedule with the hopes of remaining fully available to our parishioners.
Pastoral Care is being evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the Pastor and Staff ensuring State directives will be followed. If you are in need of Pastoral Care, please do call the office so that we may attend to your needs.
Soup Suppers for Friday, March 13, 20 and 27 are canceled.
St. Vincent de Paul’s food pantry will remain available to those in need. We anticipate an increase in usage and would welcome added donations.
All other Parish activities and events, on and off-campus, as well as Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, are hereby canceled through Friday, March 27.
OLPH Website and myOLPH calendar have been updated to reflect cancellations and ministry leaders are in the process of communicating with group participants regarding changes.
Confirmation scheduled for Saturday, March 28 will be determined, in consultation with Bishop Parker, who is celebrant, and the Archdiocese of Baltimore.
Howard County Lenten Penance Services scheduled for Monday, March 30 and Tuesday, March 31 will likewise be evaluated based on updated directives.
Moving forward as a parish, we will strive to continue to offer frequent communications that connect us in prayer and discipleship.

We remain in solidarity with our Lord through prayer and we ask you to do the same. Keeping with our Lenten theme, “You are God: We Praise You,” we encourage our parishioners to invoke the Lord in praise each day and pray through our parish Lenten reflections found at olphparish.org/lent-2020. In these concerning times, it is right to naturally move into prayers of petition and intercession, asking the Lord to bring healing to our world and protect our families. Yet because the Lord is beautiful, kind, and merciful, he is worthy of our acknowledgment of him as the one, true God through praise. With what might be extended time at home, please make use of our online spiritual resource, FORMED, olphparish.formed.org. FORMED offers excellent content for families or individuals to use such as programs, movies, books and audibles. Some examples include the latest in the Lectio series of Studies on Salvation or a wonderful series which explores the Sacrament of Reconciliation called Forgiven. For children, there are some great media choices, including “The Story of Saint Patrick”and some high-quality movies.

In the midst of this disruption to the normal daily routines, St. Benedict is a source of great wisdom. In his short Rule directed to monastic communities, Benedict stressed the importance of balance in the rhythm of life. His community, which has inspired countless other communities, incorporated routine times for prayer, eating, socializing, and working. While his exact rhythm is not a goal, families should strive for a level of routine, albeit, new and different. Our daily life may include some chores around the house, perhaps some work/homework or the chance to sing and pray together. This unexpected time may also be a blessing to enjoy a good board game, simply just enjoying each other’s company.

Even though careful deliberation has gone into all these decisions, please know it brings us deep sadness to not be able to offer Sunday Mass at our parish, especially during the season of Lent. We will continue to monitor the directives and guidance provided by the State, County, and Archdiocese and will adjust accordingly. To quote Fr. Dave Pivonka, “In these difficult days, I am reassured when I remember that God has known of this moment in history from before the beginning of time—and I believe he’s going to amaze us with his loving-kindness and mercy.” Let us echo these words and ask that our Lord Jesus look upon his people with mercy and compassion. We thank you for your patience, and truly appreciate your support as we do our best to serve you in Christ.

Jesus, we trust in you.

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MARCH 13, 2020, 2:19PM [EDITED 3:26PM]

** IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT **
– SCHEDULE UPDATES DUE TO COVID-19 –

In an effort to collaborate with local parishes, our parish response in regards to weekend Masses is not yet finalized. At this time, Eucharistic Adoration, Stations of the Cross 3/13 at 2:30pm and 7 pm, Friday (4:30-6:00pm) and Saturday (3:00-4:15pm) Confessions, and the short Te Deum talk following Stations this evening will continue as planned. Please note Soup Suppers for Friday (March 13) and Friday (March 20) are canceled. All other forthcoming parish activities and events, with the exception of Pastoral Care, ARE CANCELED. More details regarding how weekend Masses will proceed (3/14-3/15) are to follow. Thank you for your prayers and patience. Thank you for your prayers and patience. Thank you for your prayers and patience. Please visit https://olphparish.org/covid-19-response for continuing updates.

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March 12, 2020 (6:50PM)

Parishioners and Friends of the Parish:

During these stressful times, please know the safety, physical, and spiritual health of all those who call Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church a spiritual home is at the center of our prayers and parish life. As a faith community, our physical proximity to each other might change in the coming weeks. But as we welcome the third week of Lent, let us come together in spiritual and emotional solidarity and prayer that we can persevere with optimism, love, and great faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.

As most of our State, we listened intently to the action plans and Executive Orders delivered by Governor Hogan at 4 pm today. We appreciate our Governor’s leadership, and we are grateful for his proactive approach to this severe public health crisis. With that said, we are considering all that his communication entails as we wait for additional and targeted local guidelines per Howard County Executive, Calvin Ball’s Press Conference scheduled for 11 am, March 13, 2020.

Over the next several hours, OLPH parish leadership will take seriously the guidance provided by our State and Local elected officials as well as the direction put forth from the Archdiocese of Baltimore. All will be taken into prudent consideration as we plan the best way to support our parishioners within these directives and determine particular activities and events on campus, such as Stations of the Cross, and of course, Mass. We will update the Parish community with definitive decisions and action plans by tomorrow at 2pm (March 13).

Please pray for us as we plan how to foster community and personal connections in these trying times. Please count on our continued prayers as well.

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March 12, 2020 (12 Noon)

As of today, information regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19) is changing rapidly, but we would like to proactively share an update of steps we are taking here at OLPH in preparation for Mass this weekend:

The parish will not offer communion under the species of the Precious Blood with the exception of those who must receive the Sacrament with no Gluten.
During the sign of peace, we will refrain from shaking hands and rather acknowledge each other with words of peace.
Offertory baskets will not be passed through the congregation during Mass, rather gifts may be offered on-line HERE or dropped in the basket as you leave Mass. Baskets will be secured by Ministers of Hospitality at the exits. We do appreciate and rely on your continued support of the parish found in the generosity of your gift.
Holy Water fonts will be removed. The Holy Water dispenser will remain near the icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and you are welcome to bring your own vessel to fill.
Please note: cleaning products used by the parish and school have been registered and approved to successfully disinfect/kill COVID-19. Our facilities team will use this product to clean church/school door handles, restrooms, lunch tables, and key hard surfaces twice daily.
And PLEASE, if you present any illness or have been in contact with anyone who is now ill, please stay home and rest.

Please expect frequent and possibly changing updates throughout the day and weeks to follow, as we continue to plan as a parish and school and more information is provided by Archdiocese of Baltimore and local government officials. To ensure the most current information is available from the parish to you; we have designed this dedicated page of our website for COVID-19 communications. These communications will be posted in chronological order dated and time-stamped to ensure you are able to identify the most recent information. Please make note of this page’s address: https://olphparish.org/covid-19-response

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The Archdiocese of Baltimore Response

An update from Archbishop Lori on plans for reopening

For Immediate Release

May 14, 2020

Dear Friends in Christ,

As we have been sheltering at home for several weeks during this pandemic, we have missed greatly being together.

As we look toward Phase I of a reopening plan for the church and for everyone in Maryland, I want to remind you that we want to make the sacraments and the Mass as available and accessible to you as possible. At the same time, we must reopen in a way that is safe and looks toward the common good.

We owe it to our people to be responsible and we have made our decisions mainly out of pastoral love, care and concern for individuals and for the common good.

The Archdiocese recently released a set of guidelines for Phase I regarding three areas: Wedding and Funeral Masses and the Sacraments; Resumption of Parish Ministries; and Resumption of Parish Operations.

We also created a video to help you understand “What to Expect When You Return to Mass.”

In Phase I, churches will again be open for private prayer and adoration. Confessions will be available – keeping in mind safe distancing and maintaining privacy. Weekday and Sunday Masses will continue to be celebrated without the presence of the faithful, until we can gradually open up attendance in Phases II and III.

This is an instance where pastoral instincts and cooperation with the government for the common good dovetail. And so, we have maintained a cooperative stance with the state government and we intend to do so going forward. We have also been working regionally with the bishops of Delaware, West Virginia and Virginia, and the archbishop of Washington. Although we may not all be on the same timeline due to regional details, we want to be on the same page as much as we can be.

Even if we cannot yet all reunite in church to receive the sacraments, remember that our Lord does not abandon us. We all are getting kind of impatient. This must be a point for all of us of patient endurance to get through this pandemic.

I most pray for the unity of the church through all of this so that when we do open up, we’ll be able to take care of one another. And there will be a day when we open stronger, not weaker.

Until then, you and your families remain in my prayers.

Faithfully Yours in Christ,

Archbishop Lori

SEE REOPENING PLANS

An update from Archbishop Lori on plans for reopening

For Immediate Release

May 3, 2020

Dear Friends in Christ,

I know how difficult it has been for so many of you over these last several weeks to be physically separated from your parishes and the sacraments. It has been difficult for the clergy and religious of our Archdiocese who also wish very much to be together for Mass and to be present to you, especially at this difficult time.

We limited the celebration of Mass to private offerings without the physical presence of the faithful as a way of preventing the spread of the coronavirus and keeping you and all our fellow Marylanders safe during this time of crisis.

Although many of our priests and parish leaders have done a wonderful job providing for livestream Masses, I know how deeply our people yearn to come to Mass and receive our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament or find forgiveness in the sacrament of reconciliation.

We all long for a return to face-to-face fellowship, faith sharing and community.

To that end, we have begun the work of developing a plan for the careful and gradual reopening of our churches.

Over the last several weeks, I have been meeting via videoconferences with groups of priests and laity from across the Archdiocese of Baltimore. I have listened to their concerns and sought their input on the best ways of reopening our parishes.

I have also consulted with the Archdiocesan Pastoral Council, the Presbyteral Council and parish catechetical leaders. In addition, I have received regular updates from civic leaders and public health officials and the Archdiocese has a representative on the Governor’s advisory group of faith leaders.

A subcommittee on the archdiocesan coronavirus taskforce is now in the final stages of developing plans for how we will reopen our parishes as soon as it is safe to do so. I can report to you now that the plan will place the safety of everyone in our community at the forefront of everything we do.

Our actions will be informed by Gov. Larry Hogan’s three-stage process for reopening the State of Maryland. We will also work in concert with other dioceses in our region to provide a coordinated and consistent approach.

In the Archdiocese of Baltimore, our first step will be to reopen churches for private prayer. The number of people gathering for private prayer, such as for eucharistic adoration, will be strictly limited at first and there will be social distancing requirements in place.

Also in the first stage of reopening, confessions, weddings, funerals and baptisms will resume – all with limits on the number of people present and with social distancing practices in place.

Public Masses will most likely resume in a second stage of reopening, again with social distancing practices in place and limits on attendance.

Even when public Masses begin again, not every parish will be able to make them available. Some of our larger parishes may find it difficult to limit attendance at Mass and may choose to delay offering public Masses. Know that pastors will work with regional vicars to collaborate with other nearby parishes to make Masses available regionally. Eventually, Masses will be made available without limitations on attendance.

Once Masses begin, the obligation to attend will initially remain suspended, understanding that people may not immediately feel comfortable gathering in large groups. Anyone who is ill or is vulnerable due to an existing health condition will be asked not to attend Masses. Anyone who has been exposed to someone with COVID-19 will be asked to self-quarantine for 14 days before coming to Mass.

Our public Masses will look different from our liturgies prior to the pandemic because of social distancing and the use of personal protective equipment. You will notice that the Sign of Peace might be omitted or limited and that we will not be offering the Precious Blood during the distribution of the Eucharist. Our priests and deacons might not be able to greet you before or after Mass and there may be some changes in how we line up to receive the Blessed Sacrament. There will also be mandatory spacing of families and individuals in pews and a requirement for the masking of faces.

Once plans are finalized, we will share detailed guidance for our parish leaders and our entire faith community. The details of those plans will be made public in the days ahead on the archdiocesan website, www.archbalt.org.

While I believe the first phase of our plan will be able to be safely implemented relatively soon, I do not have an exact timeline for when this will take place. We will move forward when it is safe, relying on the informed guidance of health and state officials. I ask for your continued patience as we will navigate what will be a complex and challenging process for all of us.

For all the latest concerning the pandemic and news of our Archdiocese, please sign up here for the Catholic Review’s free enewsletter that is distributed twice a week via email or text messages.

I’m looking forward to the day when I can celebrate Mass with you again. To be able to celebrate the Chrism Mass, when we will bless the holy oils used in the sacraments, and to be able to ordain new priests for our Archdiocese will be special moments of joy for me and the entire Archdiocese.

Until then, you and your families remain in my prayers.

Faithfully Yours in Christ,

Most Reverend William E. Lori

Archbishop of Baltimore

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About the Archdiocese of Baltimore
The Archdiocese of Baltimore, established as a diocese in 1789, is the Premier See of the Roman Catholic Church in the United States. The archdiocese serves more than a half-million Catholics and encompasses most of the state of Maryland, serving the greater community in various ways.

Media Contact
Sean Caine
410.547.5378 (office)
443.857.4372 (cell)

Archdiocese Creates Webpage to Remember those Dead from COVID-19

For Immediate Release
Wednesday, April 15, 2020

The Archdiocese of Baltimore has launched a page on its website for people throughout Maryland to memorialize loved ones who have died of COVID-19 and to offer the prayers and support of the entire Catholic community. The page, www.archbalt.org/one-church-one-family/, allows people to upload a photo, along with the name and other information about the deceased.

Archbishop William E. Lori said of the initiative, “At a time when funeral Masses aren’t safe to celebrate and when people aren’t able to gather, even for something as important as the death of a loved one, I pray this will allow people to express their prayerful love and support in a way that is safe, but also very meaningful to those who are grieving the loss of a loved one at this time.”

The Catholic Church has a long tradition of praying for the dead, through funeral Masses, graveside services, Mass intentions and other commemorations. Catholic funeral Masses are currently prohibited in the Archdiocese and graveside committal services are limited to immediate family.

“We are a people of faith, a people of prayer,” the Archbishop added. “Though apart, we are united by our prayers for those who have gone before us, even those we don’t know. They are our brothers and sisters, part of our human family. May they rest in peace.”

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Media Contact
Sean Caine
410.547.5378 (office)
443.857.4372 (cell)

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Saturday, March 14, 2020

For Immediate Release

After receiving an update from State officials late today on the current impact of the COVID-19 virus and acting on the advice of medical professionals, Archbishop William E Lori has determined that to safeguard the well-being the faithful of the Archdiocese of Baltimore and to prevent further community spread of the virus, all public Masses are canceled until further notice.

Archbishop Lori will celebrate a private Mass at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen at 11 a.m. Sunday. A livestream of the Mass, along with other spiritual resources, will be available through www.archbalt.org.

The faithful are encouraged to remain connected to their parishes and invited to participate in the Mass via broadcast and livestream.

“My highest priority is the safety and welfare of the people of God of this Archdiocese,” Archbishop Lori said. “I take this step with great sadness, but also with wholehearted determination that we continue to provide for the spiritual well-being of the faithful at a time when their faith is most needed.”

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March 3, 2020

The Archdiocese of Baltimore is taking several steps this week to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus as more cases are reported in the United States.

Archbishop William E. Lori on Tuesday ordered the clergy to suspend the sign of peace at Masses and stop offering consecrated wine.

Parishioners should forgo shaking hands during the sign of peace and instead greet their neighbor with a bow and the words “peace be with you.” Priests and ministers will still distribute the host, but parishes will stop offering consecrated wine for the time being.

Parishioners always have the option to receive Communion in their hands, rather than on their tongue and ministers are advised to take care not to touch the tongue or hand of communicants. Ministers of Holy Communion will use hand sanitizer before distributing the Eucharist, Archbishop Lori said.

Archbishop Lori said those who are sick with contagious ailments are encouraged to stay home and not attend church services. Church leaders emphasized that missing Mass because of an illness is not a sin. Recorded services are available via radio, television and online.

Archbishop Lori said holy water fonts may be drained and remain empty at the discretion of each pastor. If the fonts do not remain empty, they should be drained, cleaned and sanitized, and refilled regularly, Archbishop Lori said.

The archdiocese said maintenance workers will step up efforts at parishes to disinfect areas that frequently come into contact with hands, such as tops of pews.

In an earlier letter to priests and deacons, the archbishop also advised clergy to follow general guidelines laid out by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Maryland Department of Health, including:

– Wash your hands frequently with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer or soap and water for at least 20 seconds;
– Cover your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing;
– Avoid close contact with people who are sick;
– If you are sick, stay home from work or school;
– Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands;
– Practice good health habits;
– Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces;
– Get a flu shot. While the influenza vaccine does not protect against coronavirus infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season.

Those guidelines are on how to prevent the flu, which has some symptoms and transmission methods similar to COVID-19.

A similar letter was sent to administrators of Archdiocese of Baltimore Catholic schools.

“We are closely monitoring all coronavirus information and recommendations and will modify our response in compliance with the directives provided by the various health authorities and experts, should circumstances warrant it,” Archbishop Lori wrote to the clergy.

No cases of the novel coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, have been confirmed in Maryland as of March 3, although several people have been tested.

COVID-19 originated in China late last year and has since spread across the globe. Several countries including Italy, South Korea and Iran are dealing with epidemics. There are about 100 confirmed cases in the U.S. and seven people have died, all in Washington state. On the East Coast, there have been cases reported in New York and Rhode Island.

COVID-19 is respiratory illness and symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath, according to the CDC. Symptoms may appear two to 14 days after exposure and symptoms can range from mild to severe, complicating health officials’ efforts to contain the disease.

Father Jason C. Worley, the pastor of St. Ursula, Parkville, wrote a letter to his parishioners this week as a precaution about the coronavirus, but he said parishioners are not overly concerned as of yet.

“Absolutely nothing,” he said of the response. “And sadly, that’s the case until something hits home. No one really pays too much attention to it.”

Father Worley said the precautions are wise and won’t adversely affect churchgoers, adding that some parishes have done away with consecrated wine already, unrelated to the concerns about COVID-19.

“People don’t need to receive both the Precious Blood and the Body of Christ. They can receive either or both,” Father Worley said.

The Body and Blood of Christ is fully present in either species. “Christ Jesus, our Lord and Savior, is wholly present under the appearance either of bread or of wine in the Eucharist,” according to a 2001 question-and-answer document on the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ website.

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COVID 19- RESOURCES

Arch Balt

State of MD

HOGAN-EXEC ORDER 3/30/2020

HOGAN-EXEC ORDER 3/23/2020

MESSAGE FROM FR. MIKE

LIVE-STREAM AT OLPH

LIVE-STREAM ARCH BALT

Pope Francis Urbi et Orbi

PRAYER TO MARY – PANDEMIC

GIVE US THIS DAY

APRIL 3, 2020, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Palm Sunday

Brothers and Sisters,

Please mark your calendar for our upcoming Holy Week and Easter live-stream liturgies or click the link for the full schedule:

Sunday, April 5 | 9:00am Mass for Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion
Wednesday, April 8 | 12 Noon to 3pm Adoration in the Good Shepherd Chapel
Holy Thursday, April 9 | 7:00pm Mass of the Lord’s Supper with Adoration of the Lord in the Tabernacle until Night Prayer with Fr. Mike and Fr. Rob at 10:00pm
Good Friday, April 10 | 8:30am Morning Prayer and
3:00pm Celebration of the Lord’s Passion with Adoration of the Cross until 5:00pm
Holy Saturday, April 11 | 8:30am Morning Prayer
8:15pm Easter Vigil Mass
Easter Sunday, April 12 | 9:00am Easter Mass
Octave of Easter, Monday to Saturday, April 13-18 | 8:30am Daily Mass
Sundays during the Easter Season | 9:00am Mass

Reminder: Our current live-stream broadcasted in real-time and all previously recorded videos can be viewed at https://olphparish.org/live-mass.

May the Lord Jesus, the light of the world, conquer the darkness of these troubling times and protect and heal our world.

In the Lord,

Rev. Michael S. Triplett

Our Lady of Perpetual Help…Pray for us
Jesus in our Hearts….forever

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MARCH 30, 2020, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

“I command you: be firm and steadfast! Do not fear nor be dismayed, for the Lord, your God, is with you wherever you go.”

– Joshua 1:90

My dear OLPH parish family,

In the Lord,

Fr. Mike Triplett

Our Lady of Perpetual Help…Pray for us

Jesus in our Hearts….forever

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MARCH 29, 2020, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

So he got up and went back to his father.
While he was still a long way off,
his father caught sight of him,
and was filled with compassion.
He ran to his son,
embraced him
and kissed him.

-Luke 15:20

Join Us for “In & Out Confessions

What do I do if I come to confession with my family?

Thank you for your patience and flexibility. We know you are eager to encounter the Lord in these unprecedented times and we are thankful to still be able to offer this sacrament of mercy.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help, pray for us.

Live Jesus in our hearts, forever.

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MARCH 25, 2020, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Be still and know that I am God
Be still and know that I am
Be still and know
Be still
Be

-Cf. Psalm 46

Stillness.

Please also view video below:

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MARCH 18, 2020, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

COMMUNICATION UPDATE

Brothers and Sisters, though our current landscape may seem foreign, remember that we belong to the Body of Christ and nothing can separate us from the love of God [Romans 8:38]!

Please see the following opportunities to experience community, healing, and hope at OLPH Parish. With deep caring, we remind Parishioners who are unwell for any reason to remain at home.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR PRAYER IN THE CHURCH

Please know the Church building will remain open for prayer.

HOURS:
Monday thru Saturday – 7 am-8 pm (VizPin users will be able to access the church between 8 pm-7 am)
Sunday – 10:30 am – 8 pm

CONFESSIONS

We are pleased to offer the Sacrament of Confession at the following times.

Hours for Confessions:
Wednesdays 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Fridays 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm
Saturdays 3:00 pm – 4:15 pm

STATIONS OF THE CROSS

ADORATION

Hours of the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament:
9:00 am Wednesday through 8:00 am Saturday

THE MASS

Our Sunday, March 20th, 9 am Mass will be live-streamed:

OFFICE HOURS

Monday to Friday, from 10 am to 2 pm
Staff is receiving and monitoring voice messages at other hours.

Please know that each Parishioner of OLPH remains on our hearts and in our constant prayers.

OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP, PRAY FOR US!

In the Lord,
Fr. Mike Triplett

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MARCH 14, 2020, 9:00PM

** IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT **
-TOMORROW’S COMMUNION DISTRIBUTION CANCELED-

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MARCH 14, 2020, 5:00PM

** IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT **
– COMMUNION DISTRIBUTION DUE TO COVID-19 – CANCELED AS OF 9PM MARCH 14, 2020

Brothers and Sisters, may our Lord Jesus Christ draw you ever closer to him and to one another,

In ongoing discernment on how best to feed our parishioners spiritually, we are pleased to offer an option to physically receive Communion this Sunday, March 15th.

THE MASS

It is expected that you and your family will participate in the Celebration of the Eucharist this weekend in one of several ways prior to coming to OLPH to receive Communion physically:

View the OLPH Parish Facebook Live Stream of our 9:00am Mass. Fr Mike and Fr Rob will solely be in the Nave of our Church celebrating Mass at 9:00am. You are welcome to view via Facebook Live. Once completed the recording will be uploaded and made available via our website here, https://olphparish.org/live-mass. The latter option should accommodate those without Facebook or who may not be available at 9:00am to view the live recording.
Via other online sources. Please visit www.archbalt.org/online-mass/ for online Mass time and options.

ARRIVAL & COMMUNION DISTRIBUTION

Outdoor Communion distribution will be available on Sunday, March 15th from 10:30am to 12:30pm and again from 5:00pm until 6:30pm. Please arrive during either time frame!

SPIRITUAL COMMUNION

All parishioners are encouraged to offer a “spiritual communion” this weekend [March 14-15].

In the Lord,
Fr. Mike Triplett

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MARCH 13, 2020, 6:23PM

** IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT **
– SCHEDULE UPDATES DUE TO COVID-19 –

Brothers and Sisters,

Our parish leadership has made the following decisions, in compliance with the directives of the State of Maryland, Howard County, and the Archdiocese of Baltimore.

Sunday Mass:
Archbishop Lori has dispensed all the faithful from the Sunday Mass obligation.
OLPH in solidarity with the parishes of St. Louis in Clarksville, St. Francis in Fulton, St. John in Columbia, Resurrection & St. Paul in Ellicott City, and St. Alphonsus in Woodstock, have canceled all Sunday Masses (including our Saturday vigil Masses) for both March 14-15 and 21-22 weekends. We do not take this decision lightly and we are heartbroken that we are unable to offer the Eucharist to our Parishioners, however, in an effort to remain united, this coming weekend (3/14-15) our 9am Sunday Mass will be live-streamed and distributed for viewing via our Facebook page. Please also know to help us sanctify our days and to keep us walking in the liturgical rhythm of the Church, we are honored to make the online version of MAGNIFICAT temporarily available to everyone for free.
Liturgical Gatherings: Daily Mass (Monday through Saturday), Confessions (Wednesday 6-7pm, Friday 4:30-6pm, and Saturday 3-4:15pm), Stations of the Cross (Friday 2:30 and 7pm), and Eucharistic Adoration will continue as planned. We encourage all parishioners especially those in high-risk populations to use prudence in their decision to participate.
Eucharist Adoration will follow our regular schedule from Wednesday 9:00am until Saturday at 8:00am and will be held in the Nave of the Church to allow for additional space for social distancing. Any Adorer not comfortable attending Eucharistic Adoration is lifted from their commitment.
Office Hours The parish office will remain open Monday 3/16, Tuesday 3/17 and Wednesday 3/18 from 9am to 4pm. In the coming days, we will consider a reduced office schedule with the hopes of remaining fully available to our parishioners.
Pastoral Care is being evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the Pastor and Staff ensuring State directives will be followed. If you are in need of Pastoral Care, please do call the office so that we may attend to your needs.
Soup Suppers for Friday, March 13, 20 and 27 are canceled.
St. Vincent de Paul’s food pantry will remain available to those in need. We anticipate an increase in usage and would welcome added donations.
All other Parish activities and events, on and off-campus, as well as Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, are hereby canceled through Friday, March 27.
OLPH Website and myOLPH calendar have been updated to reflect cancellations and ministry leaders are in the process of communicating with group participants regarding changes.
Confirmation scheduled for Saturday, March 28 will be determined, in consultation with Bishop Parker, who is celebrant, and the Archdiocese of Baltimore.
Howard County Lenten Penance Services scheduled for Monday, March 30 and Tuesday, March 31 will likewise be evaluated based on updated directives.
Moving forward as a parish, we will strive to continue to offer frequent communications that connect us in prayer and discipleship.

Jesus, we trust in you.

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MARCH 13, 2020, 2:19PM [EDITED 3:26PM]

** IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT **
– SCHEDULE UPDATES DUE TO COVID-19 –

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March 12, 2020 (6:50PM)

Parishioners and Friends of the Parish:

Please pray for us as we plan how to foster community and personal connections in these trying times. Please count on our continued prayers as well.

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March 12, 2020 (12 Noon)

The parish will not offer communion under the species of the Precious Blood with the exception of those who must receive the Sacrament with no Gluten.
During the sign of peace, we will refrain from shaking hands and rather acknowledge each other with words of peace.
Offertory baskets will not be passed through the congregation during Mass, rather gifts may be offered on-line HERE or dropped in the basket as you leave Mass. Baskets will be secured by Ministers of Hospitality at the exits. We do appreciate and rely on your continued support of the parish found in the generosity of your gift.
Holy Water fonts will be removed. The Holy Water dispenser will remain near the icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and you are welcome to bring your own vessel to fill.
Please note: cleaning products used by the parish and school have been registered and approved to successfully disinfect/kill COVID-19. Our facilities team will use this product to clean church/school door handles, restrooms, lunch tables, and key hard surfaces twice daily.
And PLEASE, if you present any illness or have been in contact with anyone who is now ill, please stay home and rest.