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My Dear Friends,

I hope that you and your families are well.

We are in very difficult times and the true meaning of Lent has never been so meaningful! I don’t think that we have prayed, fasted and practiced alms giving during any other Lent more than we are doing this Lent!

I join with all of you in prayer for an end to this pandemic and I’m sure we are all doing whatever we can to help one another the safest way possible. There are many loving acts of kindness we can do without coming into close contact with people!

As far as fasting is concerned I think that is an impossibility at this point with being home so much and getting on each other’s nerves. Lol, (I think we will all be 19 pounds heavier when COVID-19 is over).

One thing is for sure, not being able to receive the Eucharist is a Fast that we never thought would happen and a fast that will have a greater impact on our spiritual lives than giving up something we like!

Taking for granted that the Eucharist will be there for us whenever we feel like receiving it, I don’t think it will be something that we will take lightly ever again.

Although we are physically apart from each other we can all stay spiritually connected by praying together on our parish website and Facebook page (you may also wish to follow me on my personal Facebook account, where you can find Mass live-streamed).

Please know that I am here for you for whatever you may need!

As Our Lord always reminds us to “Be Not Afraid" - we will overcome this evil virus and emerge from this Lent as Easter People more renewed than ever before with a Spirit of Love, Mercy and Respect for One Another and Life Itself!

May our Blessed Mother under the title of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel and Mother Cabrini watch over us and save us!!

Amen!

Msgr. Jamie

Rev. Monsignor Jamie J. Gigantiello

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Recognizing the incredible impact that our Italian heritage has had on our lives and its contribution to our individual successes, we the members of the Columbus Citizens Foundation dedicate ourselves to preserving and enhancing the culture, traditions and values we were so blessed to receive. Furthermore, we will commit to honor those that came before us by ensuring that their love of country, family and tireless work ethic are passed to our children and all future generations. We firmly commit to raise and distribute financial aid to educate children in need and pledge to extend ourselves in perpetuating the philanthropic work that has been synonymous with our Foundation.

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