Although Archbishop Sample has approved a plan for “the limited reopening” of Masses, he acknowledges that not every parish will be able and ready to reopen Masses right now. According to the Archbishop, determination of parish readiness is left solely to the pastor. If a parish is unable to meet the requirements detailed in the “Archdiocesan Plan for Limited Reopening Masses,” the parish cannot reopen Masses.
Many factors may prevent a parish reopening Masses (the underlying health conditions of the pastor, lack of volunteers for cleaning, lack of cleaning supplies, etc.) Given that our own pastor is beginning radiation and chemotherapy, both of which will be five days a week and run six weeks total, at present our parish is not ready to begin even “limited” access to the church. So, we will continue to provide English and Spanish live-streamed Masses each weekend, until further notice.
The dispensation for the Sunday Mass obligation remains in effect, so no one is required or expected to attend Mass on the weekends. Even when the day comes that we can offer a limited schedule, it will be in accord with the law which says that no more than 25 people (total) may be in attendance. On a related note, no one will be allowed to “show up” for Mass; everyone in attendance will have to make prior arrangements. Obviously, we will need added time to coordinate “who” may come to Mass and “when” (and do so in an equitable fashion).
The Archbishop says, “The faithful are asked to be patient, understanding, and supportive of their pastor if their parish is unable to reopen Masses at this time.” In the meantime, let us pray: “O God, our refuge in trials, our strength in sickness, our comfort in sorrow, spare your people undergoing this time of affliction. May we find relief at last through your loving mercy. We invoke the help of Our Lady and we pray through Christ our Lord. Amen.”
