Dear Friends in Christ,
As the COVID crisis drags on, these days with fewer distractions have been a good time for self-reflection. I believe the Good Lord is preparing us for the times ahead and giving us an opportunity to grow to grow closer to him. In my own examination of conscience, I am asking: How am I living up to my Christian calling? Is Jesus the inspiration for all my actions and decisions? Am I fully aware of how my sins, even the small ones, hurt others and hurt the heart of the Lord? How can I be a better witness of my faith? What am I doing to reach others with the saving news of Jesus? In short, let’s just say there is much room for improvement in my own life. May the Holy Spirit give each of us a deep awareness of our sins, a profound spirit of repentance, an abiding understanding of God’s love, and the grace to be merciful to others.
Please see below for a brief report on the Archbishop’s recent meeting with his priests, a summary of answers to frequently asked questions about COVID-19 requirements and more.
Archbishop Sample
On Tuesday, Archbishop Sample met by videoconference with his priests. The increase of numbers allowed for Phase 1 churches is the fruit of his dialogue with the Governor’s Office. He urged cooperation and solidarity in implementing the guidelines of the Archdiocese of Portland for attendance at Masses. Otherwise, we are all put at risk of greater restrictions. Regarding the Portland protests, the Archbishop reminded priests that the Church does not engage in partisan politics. These are very divisive times. We must be careful not to get distracted from our evangelizing mission. Tensions and emotions are high. We must be charitable and focused on Christ. The Archbishop acknowledged that the crisis is weighing on all of us. He is praying for his priests and expressed his sincere esteem and deep gratitude for their good work and leadership during these times. We continue to seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Archbishop is working with a consulting firm and a small team of diocesan staff to re-energize the Pastoral Center around the Church’s evangelizing mission.
Livestream Schedule
How Many Worshipers Can Gather at Church?
Phase 1 counties: up to 50 persons total indoors or outdoors.
Phase 2 counties: up to 100 persons indoors (up to 250 at outdoor gatherings).
1 person can be allowed indoors for every 35 square feet of space, up to the maximum.
What are the Face Covering Requirements in Churches?
All churchgoers 5 years and up must wear face coverings at Mass.
Those excepted: presiders (except during distribution of Holy Communion), lectors/cantors while reading/singing, those with disabilities or medical conditions that preclude them from wearing face coverings.
Are Sign-Ups for Mass Still Required?
Yes, names and contact phone or email must still be collected for each churchgoer who attends Mass. In limited cases, a pastor could allow people to simply show-up and sign-up immediately prior to Mass. Under NO circumstances can the number of attendees exceed the legal requirements.
Can Satellite Sites Still Be Used?
Yes, satellite sites can still be used.
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“Helpful Reminders” Poster
One-Time Use Worship Aids Available
To assist parishes, the Office of Divine Worship is providing readymade one-time use worship aids for Sundays and Solemnities. See
MEMO
. The worship aids are available
HERE
.
Next Mailing:
Tuesday, August 4.
In Christ,
Todd Cooper
COVID-19 Pastoral Center Response, Core Team Chair
Key Pastoral Resources
REMINDERS
Safety First Grant Program
See memo with important update
HERE
.
August 15, 2020
Solemnity of the Assumption – ODW
MEMO
.
August 31, 2020
Reopening Resources
- FACE COVERINGS REQUIRED in Church Statewide: More Info HERE
- Guidance for Faith-Based Gatherings in Phase II Counties: OHA FAQ HERE
- Phase Two Reopening Memo ENGLISH and SPANISH
- Plan for Limited Reopening of Masses (English/Spanish)
- Limited Plan for Reopening Masses (English/Spanish)
- Readiness Checklist – Use with above Plan
- Use of Satellite Sites for Mass: MEMO
- Protocol for COVID-19 exposure at Mass: HERE
- Information about Contract Tracing - HERE.
- Archdiocesan web resources: CLICK HERE.
- Guidelines for Returning to the Workplace - Find materials from OHA HERE
- CDC guidelines for faith communities
- CDC Guidelines for Daily Life
- FlockNote Mass Sign-Up, Tracking - How it works.
