Each year at this time concerns are raised regarding the potential spread of influenza throughout various communities. The most recent weekly report from the State Department of Public Health categorizes the statewide estimate of influenza activity as ‘widespread’. In addition, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this year's flu vaccine is less effective in the prevention of influenza A(H3N2) than in prior years. As pastors committed to promoting and protecting the well-being of our parishioners, we need to be as cautious and prudent as possible in responding to any possible threat, especially for children and the elderly. Since conditions vary from one locale to another, the most effective approach is at the level of the local parish. Pastors are therefore encouraged to prudentially consider the following guidelines and suggestions as they pertain to your local community: During the Eucharistic Liturgy, the Sign of Peace need not be announced or exchanged. (As you know, the exchange of peace is always optional during Holy Mass, omitting the invitation “let us offer each other the sign of peace” GIRM 154) If the invitation is announced, parishioners should consider avoiding handshakes, embraces and other physical contact. A simple gesture, or even a silent prayer, could easily suffice. Likewise, if your parish is in the habit of holding hands during the Lord's Prayer, this practice should be eliminated.

Tuesday, February 6. 10:00 am. Wake: Monday, February 5, 5-7 pm Gaffney/Dolan

MARIA PARKER, RECEIVES THIS YEAR'S IMMACULATE CONCEPTION, ST. THOMAS MORE, DEFENDER OF THE FAITH, PRO-LIFE AWARD. MARIA is the Mother of five and Grandmother of 9. She is married to Kenneth Parker of Cranston, RI. Maria is a graduate of Anna Maria College, Paxton and Venerini Academy in Worcester, MA. She earned her MBA degree in international management from the University of Rhode Isand. From 1992-1998, Maria served as Respect Life Coordinator for the Diocese of Providence. In that role she lobbied RI legislators and served as Diocesan spokeswoman on the issues of abortion, euthanasia and capital punishment. During that time, she also hosted a radio program for the Diocese for 3 years called “To Life” as well as a TV series entitled "Embrace Life". In 1998, Maria joined the staff of the MA Catholic Conference, as Project Director of a statewide education initiative on end of life issues and the threat of assisted suicide called “In Support of Life”. In 2000, Parker served the Massachusetts Catholic Conference as Associate Director for Public Policy, and then Interim Executive Director, lobbying on public policy issues of concern to the Catholic Church in MA. In MA she became a leading voice on issues related to life, marriage and family. In January 2000, she was invested as a Dame of Malta at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in NYC. In October of 2006, Maria was given the prestigious “Professional Achievement Award “ from her alma mater, Anna Maria College. Having traveled extensively, Maria speaks 3 languages. From 1998-2007, she headed a team of representatives to the United Nations for the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organizations (WUCWO) serving on their World Board. In 2011, Maria served as a member of the Holy See Delegation to the United Nations ‘ Commission on the Status of Women. Most recently, Maria is serving as Vice Chair of the Advisory Board to St. Pius Regional Academy, and as a member of the Respect Life Committee of St. Clare’s Parish. She continues to consult with and educate others on current issues involving life, marriage, religious freedom and the feminine genius.

No Calling Hours

Please Pray for the repose of the souls who died THIS WEEK in our parish.

If you or a loved one are in the hospital or homebound and wish Father Capoverdi to make a visit, please call the Rectory and inform the Parish Secretary to make the arrangements for Father to make a visit.

Wake: Monday from 5-7pm at Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home, 59 Spruce St., Westerly.