Good Afternoon!
I’d like to provide you with this update and clarification on the Archdiocesan decision regarding Palm Sunday. In an effort to cooperate with state and local policies on limiting gatherings of people, ‘stay home orders’ and enforcing ‘social distancing’, the Archbishop has directed that the churches remain closed and all public Masses remain cancelled until further notice. This policy applies to this coming Sunday, Palm Sunday.
Also, the Archbishop has directed that palm NOT be distributed this Sunday. Pastors are to bless the palm in private, the palm is to be stored (preferably under refrigeration) until a later date when it will be made available to the parishioners.
I’d like to emphasize that these steps are being taken to protect the health and welfare of all of us. I agree with the Archbishop that all of us, Catholic and non-Catholic alike, must cooperate and work together in our efforts to overcome this health crisis.
There have been NO limits placed on prayers! Please continue to pray at home; pray for our church, our nation and our community! If we all work together, we will get through this. I join you in eagerly awaiting the day when once again we can gather in our parish church, pray together and share in the Eucharist (and even receive our palm!).
Fr. McDermott