Our Church buildings are an important part of our lives and our communities. Each Church building is a reminder of God’s presence in our world and in our lives. These same buildings are a silent invitation to prayer and not just at the weekend liturgy but every day. I also know that any damage or disrespect shown to the important building evokes strong emotions from us and rightly so. I am sure you are aware of what has happened in neighboring communities here in Aroostook County. All of us need to be concerned, not just about damage done to our churches but also protecting the integrity of the Blessed Sacrament.

I am asking that when there are no liturgical services at a church that the doors remain locked. The exception is when there are staff present during the day.

I know people will not be happy with this, but I am genuinely concerned right now about a “copycat” event happening in our communities. Right now, the doors at St. Joseph Church are locked after services. We will be doing the same at St. Mary and St. Charles Church. The side door at St. Louis will remain unlocked during office hours, which is from 8am until 4pm. If you have a key to one of our churches’ buildings, I will ask that when you leave that the church be securely locked. If someone enters the building while you are there both should leave together, again making sure the building is secure. I am strongly asking that people with keys to our church buildings let the Parish Office know that you have a key. We need, for safety reasons, to create a roster of who has keys and when do they use them. So, if you have a key, please call the parish office.

I do appreciate your cooperation in all of this. My immediate goal is to protect our churches and to make sure that in no way is the Blessed Sacrament disrespected.