13 March 2020 Dear Parishioners, Parents/Guardians of SMS and PREP Students:
In light of the serious health risks to vulnerable populations, and mindful of the instructions of medical professionals, the Archdiocese of New York has urged the faithful to use their prudential judgment on whether or not to attend Mass on Sundays during the coronavirus outbreak.
If you or your loved ones have a serious medical issue which would prohibit them from attending Mass, as well as for all people in times of general emergencies, the obligation to attend Mass on Sunday is dropped. This is especially true during this coronavirus outbreak, particularly for adults over the age of 60, people with underlying medical conditions, and family members of such individuals, who should take special care in discerning the best course of action.
If you wish, you may attend a weekday Mass instead, with a much lesser number of faithful attending. Also, if you don’t feel secure in receiving the Eucharist, please stay in your place and offer a “Spiritual Communion,” placing yourself in union with Christ.
At this time, Mass will continue to be offered at St. Margaret’s. If need be, we will offer more Masses so as to limit the numbers attending a particular Mass. Those who are unable to attend Mass can follow the Mass on radio, television, or online where possible. Mass from Saint Patrick’s Cathedral will be broadcast and available on many cable systems via the
Catholic Faith Network and its website , live-streamed on the
Saint Patrick’s Cathedral website , and broadcast on radio on The Catholic Channel of Sirius XM (Channel 129).
All are urged to keep in prayer those who are suffering from the coronavirus, as well as for doctors, nurses, caregivers, and all those who are working to combat the disease. The following prayer will be shared with the parishes and people of the archdiocese.
Please know of our prayers for your family and all the families of our Parish. Perhaps we as a family can pray the following Prayer. Our Lady, Health of the Sick, pray for us.
Sincerely yours in Christ, Rev. Eric P, Raaser
Pastor