COVID-19 Update — March 25, 2020

MARCH 25, 2020

COVID-19 Update

Dear Friends in Christ,

On this feast of the Annunciation, when the Word became Flesh, may we rejoice in our salvation, even in the midst of these challenging days. And may the Blessed Mother’s unconditional “yes” inspire us to be ever faithful in serving God and one another.

Once again, we are expanding our communications to even more people, including additional parish and school staff. Below are the latest updates and resources. For a link to yesterday’s mailing, scroll to the bottom of this email.

As Catholic leaders and ministers, please continue, within the restrictions of the state, to do everything you can to reach out and connect with the people you serve. The Church must not abandon her people in their hour of great need.

Archbishop Sample

The Archbishop met virtually with his Vicars Forane this morning, encouraging them to remain connected to the priests in their vicariates. He commended them for their pastoral response in this time of crisis, and asked them to remain close to the people. During these times, our priests have exhibited a wonderful sense of unity with the Archbishop and one another. Let us keep them foremost in our prayers as they serve us unreservedly.

At Noon today, in response to the Holy Father’s request of Christians around the world, the Archbishop led people in praying the Lord’s Prayer via livestream video. He followed by praying the Angelus and the rosary to mark the Solemnity of the Annunciation. 500 people joined in.

Friday, March 27, 2020 — LIVE at 6:00 PM, Please join Archbishop Sample for evening prayer and a special message from the chapel in his residence: www.facebook.com/bishopalexandersample/

Pope to Lead Prayer

On Friday, March 27, at 10:00 AM (PT), Pope Francis will lead a broadcast prayer service and offer a special blessing to the city (of Rome) and the world (“ Urbi et Orbi ”). This special blessing is typically only given at Christmas and Easter. You can watch online here: https://youtu.be/VJHI8bI0LWg or on the website of Vatican News WWW.VATICANNEWS.VA the Holy Father will grant to all participants the Plenary Indulgence before imparting the Urbi et Orbi Blessing.

Liturgy Update – Holy Week

Here is the latest memo from the Office of Divine Worship, Holy Week 2020, dated today, March 25, 2020. READ DOCUMENT HERE

Catholic Schools

Here is a letter from the Superintendent of Catholic Schools to our Catholic school families. READ DOCUMENT HERE

Here is a summary of a note that went out by email from the Department of Catholic Schools to principals today (March 25). READ DOCUMENT HERE

Working Remotely

Here are some excellent tips from Human Resources for managing staff from home. READ DOCUMENT HERE

Website Updates

Our website is being continuously updated, often with resources that you share with us. Thank you!

As one example, see this helpful memo from the Oregon State Police HERE .

Visit the Archdiocese of Portland website here: www.archdpdx.org

Spiritual Closeness

Let us use this difficult time of “social distance” to grow in “spiritual closeness” among individuals, families, and an Archdiocesan faith community. It is more crucial than ever that we find creative ways to stay connected with one another, particularly our parish seniors who are most vulnerable and isolated. Since our parishes are always open to serve, many of the lay faithful are assisting the parish staff by making pastoral care and outreach calls to all parishioners. Please reference these - and other - outreach ideas HERE .

Pastoral Center Staff Praying For You

Pastoral Center staff are gathering virtually each morning at 9:00 AM to pray for all of you and your work and ministry. Please keep us in your prayers, too.