Information from the Diocese of Providence
during the COVID-19 Crisis
January 8, 2021
Bishop Tobin offers a message of renewed hope during Christmas Mass
PROVIDENCE — Bishop Thomas J. Tobin offered a message of renewed hope as he celebrated the 10 a.m. Mass on Christmas morning at the Cathedral of SS. Peter and Paul.

He began by offering a warm and sincere welcome to all, including those in attendance at the Mass, as well as those watching at home on WPRI-TV, which, along with the Diocese of Providence YouTube page, also broadcast the cathedral’s video feed for viewing by those unable to attend.

In new year, share the blessing of your time, pope writes
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — At the beginning of a year people hope will mark the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, Pope Francis urged them to create a “culture of care,” including by sharing the gift of their time with others.

Despite suffering from a bout of sciatica, nerve pain, that left him unable to preside over Mass Jan. 1 in St. Peter’s Basilica, the pope sent a homily focused on God’s blessings and on sharing those blessings with others.

Pope Francis' greetings for 2021
U.S. Bishops on COVID-19 Vaccines
In case you missed it!
The Diocese on Social Media
James Jahnz to lead Catholic Charities and Social Ministries
PROVIDENCE — Bishop Thomas J. Tobin has appointed James Jahnz to serve as Secretary for Catholic Charities and Social Ministry for the Diocese of Providence. The appointment, effective January 1, is for a five-year term that may be renewed.

In his letter of appointment, Bishop Tobin noted that Jahnz’s 16 years of experience working in the diocese’s Catholic Charities and Social Ministries would serve him well in his new position heading the department.

January is a special month to come together in support of life
Guest Editorial to the RI Catholic
While the Catholic Church celebrates life every month of the year, the month of January is especially important in the celebration of life, because this is also the month when we are reminded of our challenges. It was on January 22, 1973 when the Supreme Court ruled that the constitution of the United States protects a pregnant woman’s liberty to choose to have an abortion. Since then, countless lives have been lost and ruined. As followers of Christ . . . 

January Respect Life Events
From the Office of Life & Family
Due to the COVID pandemic restrictions we ask that you please RSVP
to the Respect Life events, contact information just below.
Seminarian Q&A with Jairon Olmos
SEMINARIAN EDUCATION IS SUPPORTED BY THE CATHOLIC CHARITY FUND APPEAL
Youngster using artistic talent to help the homeless
NARRAGANSETT — Scarlett sells seashells by the seashore — and anywhere else her little red wagon will take her. It isn’t just shells, either: she also has a plethora of pebbles and painted rocks, along with various other treasures which the ocean has washed up. And, truthfully, it isn’t just Scarlett Raucci — although the seven-year-old may be at the helm of this new non-profit, she has a wide network of supporters. Several other members of the Raucci family have contributed to her new charity, with Scarlett’s grandmother Marian Mattison being foremost among them.

PHOTO: DANIEL J. HOLMES
St. Mark’s parishioner answers the call to service
PROVIDENCE — Mia Ricci became so inspired by the message of empowerment being offered to her and her fellow fourth graders at Oaklawn Elementary School during a Feinstein Junior Scholars event that she was immediately motivated to take action to good in the community.

PHOTO: RICK SNIZEK
More great photos from our Catholic Schools
Some "Read to Succeed" participants at
Bishop McVinney Regional School, PreK-8, Providence
Greater Woonsocket Catholic Regional, PreK-8, Woonsocket
Mr. DeCiccio '03 & Ace making snow day memories - representing for
Bishop Hendricken High School, Boys 8-12, Warwick
The Mask Task Force at
LaSalle Academy, 9-12, Providence
BANFF Centre Mountain Film Festival
First ever *Virtual* World Tour!
This year, bring the adventure home! 
For the first time ever, travel to breathtaking destinations, embark on daring expeditions, and celebrate some of the most remarkable outdoor achievements, all from the comforts of your living room. So, fluff up your couch cushions, grab a snack of choice, and make sure you have good internet connection!

The COVID-19 pandemic has created extraordinary circumstances around the world and many of our live World Tour screenings have been postponed or canceled. While we can’t replicate the experience of seeing the Banff films on the big screen of your local theatre, surrounded by friends and your community, these curated programs of amazing outdoor films will inspire you to live life to the fullest... however that looks these days!

Please visit https://mcvinneyauditorium.com or call 802-222-0122 for more information about the online programs and how you can support your local screening.

*Scroll down the BANFF webpage to see all film festival viewing options*
Unable to attend Holy Mass?
Learn how to Make a Spiritual Communion
March 2020, at the start of the pandemic, Rev. Jeremy J. Rodrigues, S.T.L., Administrative Secretary to the Bishop & Director of the Office for Divine Worship, Diocese of Providence, recorded videos for the faithful explaining "How to Make a Spiritual Communion."

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Click here to see the good work of your Catholic Charities donation in action.
The Rhode Island Catholic
After having moved all publishing to the RI Catholic website as the pandemic began to unfold, the diocesan newspaper has returned to print!


Find the Catholic online:
Live-streamed and pre-recorded Masses
**Please consult parish websites, bulletins, and social media often for the most up-to-date Mass times as we slowly move to resume public worship. Be reminded that some parishes may continue with live-streaming liturgies, Mass times may change, and each parish will have guidelines in place for parishioners.**

Regular Masses
During the COVID-19 Crisis, regular Masses continue to be posted on the diocesan website page dedicated to parish live-streamed/pre-recorded Masses. Find it here.

Special Devotions & Public Worship
As in the past, please consult your parish's bulletin, website, and social media pages for the specifics relative to special devotions, the Rosary, and more. Find parish contact and website information here.
Watch the Sunday 10:00am Mass live from the Cathedral
Stay in touch
Get help, follow the Diocese on social media, and more
Sincerely yours in Christ,

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence
Office of Communications
One Cathedral Square, Providence, RI
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