Special Bulletin
Peace and prayers to all of you.
We have had an overwhelming outpouring of concern from you, our most faithful friends, and we are humbled and grateful for your fidelity during this challenging time.
Like many of you, Holy Family has been severely affected by the inability to open our doors to the public. I know that those who are missing their retreats feel an even deeper sense of loss of their spiritual connection. We feel this loss, deeply, as well.
Through it all, one thing has become abundantly clear — we need each other more than ever.
Many of you have inquired about how you can help, and we are working on a plan to respond to the enormous financial impact that COVID-19 will have on the Retreat Center and our ministry. Indeed, the very existence of our spiritual home is threatened, but we have faith that God will provide a path forward.
I know that you want and expect us to be thoughtful about our approach to addressing the financial needs. We ask for your patience as we assess a fitting response, and we will be back in touch with you soon on that.
For now, I want to share some key information with you:
For the first time in our 70-year history, Holy Family has had to cease all retreats and programs. Our only outreach is through online contact.
The anticipated loss in revenue from just the March - June retreats is $1 million
This loss is not covered by Property or Liability Insurance
As a result, we have had to lay off or furlough most of our beloved and long-time staff, which has been difficult and heartbreaking. Many of them are the main income earners in their families, and unemployment does not apply to them because of our religious affiliation.
Let us pray for one another as we enter into this most holy time of the Church year. We long to be with you once again to explore and celebrate the sacred gift of our faith, but my sense is that is not to be for some time. Until then, please visit our website for daily “Messages of Hope” Series and know that your love and belief in Holy Family continues to be a bright light of hope for us.
Thank you, and may God bless you and your family.
In the Passion of Christ,
Fr. David