It’s an expression that we use to remind someone that we are home, waiting for them.  After discussion with the pastoral council, Father Klein has asked weekend sacristans to leave all of the lights on in church, which were used during Mass, and to leave the front doors open. 

Sacristans are very responsible.  They typically arrive an hour before Mass, as there is a lot to do.  It’s understandable that, with Mass completed, they should want to shut off lights, lock up, and return home.

However, many parishioners begin to visit with each other after Mass, which is something the pastoral council feels should be encouraged, not discouraged.  Knowing each other and sharing life with each other in the Lord is what a parish is all about. 

Leaving the church open after Mass also allows people to stay and to pray awhile every week.  Lots of people stop during the week to pray.  Maybe the only chance others have is when they are already here for Mass.  It’s hoped that if other parishioners see someone in the pew, praying, they will simply move their conversation to the gathering area. 

All of this can be easily accommodated because Father Klein and Coco typically eat after the Saturday evening and Sunday morning Masses.  They can pass through the church, an hour or so later, to turn off lights and to lock up.  So, from now on, sacristans will lock up the sacristy cabinets, but leave the gates, lights, and doors to Father Klein. 

For some time now in the summer months, we have left the church open until dark.  You would be surprised at the number of people, especially our youth, who stop for a visit.  We will continue to close up at dusk on weekdays.