Saint Mary of the Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church

Dear Folks,

About to head home, and I hear reports of impending snow storms, and by then you will know if we go the ‘Fredericksburg fizzle.’ That’s a term I made up for the snow storms that have almost entirely failed to live up to expectations since I moved to town 10 years ago. And yes, as one who loves skiing, I still appreciate a good calm snow day!!

Attaching a picture from Cairo with Jeff and Emily Cavins. Many of you know him from spending every morning with his reflections in the Hallow app. It was a little surreal to hear his voice in person. But he is such a gracious scholar whose wisdom is so down to earth. Most surprising: his constant sense of humor. It seemed my orange wardrobe was very amusing to him!

We are kicking off Catholic Schools Week as well. It is such a wonderful moment to thank you, the people of our parish, who make our school mission possible. Your generosity to the capital campaign funded our amazing expansion! Your generosity to all of the appeals and interactions with the school show that St. Mary’s has a heart of loving, teaching, and caring for children. Together we are forming saints, scholars, and leaders!

pax,

Father John Mosimann

The Diocese of Arlington has issued the following statement:

Due to the impending winter storm, which is predicted to be severe, and noting that the Governor of Virginia has declared a state of emergency beginning Saturday, January 24, if it is not possible for parishioners to attend Mass due to road and travel conditions that jeopardize safety, they are dispensed from the obligation to attend Mass on Sunday, January 25. For those who cannot attend Mass, then time should be spent reading the Word of God or in prayer to mark the Lord’s Day.

If parishioners reasonably foresee that they will not be able to attend Mass on Sunday, parishioners should consider attending a Saturday Vigil Mass wherever possible.