February is upon us and there are several things I want to mention:
 
The flu season is just reaching its peak, so please be careful.  If you are sick—fever, coughing and sneezing, aches and pains, etc.—please do everyone a favor.  Stay home and get well.  If things do not get better quickly enough, go see a doctor!  Meanwhile, if you are not sure, we will all understand and be appreciative when you just nod or bump elbows at the greeting or sign of peace.  And in such a situation, please stay away from the cup.
 
As of February 1, Deacon Dave’s office has moved to the Lake House.  Joy Dawson is his administrative assistant and will be there when you enter the Lake House.  Deacon Dave will continue to coordinate Pastoral Care and Outreach ministries.  Also, the St. Vincent de Paul Society will be operating from the Lake House, as well.  We have to begin to get used to being a campus and having all kinds of different spaces for use by parishioners!
 
I finally got out the last of my Thank You notes for my Birthday and Christmas gifts!  I always am afraid I will forget someone.  You are all so very supportive and generous to me and the parish.  If I forgot you, please forgive me.  The cards and good wishes were so many I know I cannot answer all of them.  But I truly “feel the love.”  I love being a priest, and I love being a priest here at St. Michael.  God Bless!