You have heard the news about the re-closure of certain locations by Governor Newsom. Late last night, we received word from the Archdiocese that all parishes must discontinue indoor Masses.
It’s disappointing to accept this news especially since, for the past six weeks, we have made great strides in keeping our parishioners, those who have been attending in-person Masses, safe from the coronavirus with all of our entry precautions.
What follows is an excerpt of the Archdiocesan directives:
According to the Governor and the Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and Ventura County Public Health Offices, our parishes must discontinue indoor Masses and other liturgical services, effective immediately.
Outdoor Masses and other liturgical services such as adoration and prayer services are allowed and encouraged.
Parishes may continue to celebrate Confessions, First Communions, Confirmations, Funerals, and Weddings outdoors on the parish grounds.
Parishioners must wear face coverings and practice social distancing, even outdoors.
Additionally, the Governor’s Directives include closures of parish offices. Parish offices are to be closed to the public. Pastors may allow a minimal number of essential parish staff members to continue working in the office provided that social distancing is observed.
For example, while the office is closed to the public, parishes are encouraged to communicate regularly with parishioners, return calls to answer questions, and reassure individuals and families that our parishes are still there for them in prayer and to help with any needs they may have.
This is also a good time to remind all of our parishioners that the risk of coronavirus is real, and it is dangerous.
While these Orders are discouraging and disappointing, this is the time to pray for one another, trust in Jesus, and focus on the care and love he has for each one of us.
As the saying goes: “When a door closes, another one opens…” And it opens to the outside! The Church has endured many challenges, persecutions, pestilence, and dangers since Jesus Christ established it more than 2,000 years ago. Christianity prevails throughout the ages. It prevails through this age, too!
As Roman 8:31-39 says:
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? … Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?
Or the coronavirus? NO!
Your Loving Pastor,
Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas