We living in challenging and fearful times with this mysterious and dangerous virus. This is where our faith is so important, especially Jesus’ repeated message, “Do not be afraid.” He is with us always in our broken world. No matter what the world throws at us, we are always to be God’s faithful children, following the example of Lord in His passion, to respond with love, charity, compassion, and hope.
Our bishop has issued a statement suspending all public Masses in the Oakland diocese given the “shelter-in-place” policy for Alameda county. Catholics of the diocese are also dispensed from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass. We will be having Mass every day, and you can join us in prayer by live streaming it through our YouTube link or our Facebook Video link.
With the “shelter-in-place” policy, our parish group meetings have been canceled. Please check our website regularly to see if your group is meeting online.
Please don’t forget to wash your hands often and honor social distancing. We want to do our part to starve this virus from finding human hosts and help eradicate it. Also don’t forget to call mom and others often. Social distancing does not mean we have to socially disconnected.
Our bishop writes,
“In this time of need, I invite all the faithful to seek together the maternal intercession of our Blessed Mother.
O Mary,
you shine always on our way
as a sign of safety and hope.
We entrust ourselves to you, Health of the Sick,
who at the foot of the Cross bound yourself to the suffering of Jesus,
keeping strong in your faith .
O Salvation of God’s People,
you know what we need,
and we are sure you will provide it for us
just as at Cana of Galilee,
the joy and feasting could return
after that moment of trial.
Mother of Divine Love, help us,
to conform ourselves to the will of the Father
and to do what Jesus tells us,
He who has took upon Himself our sufferings
and is marked by our sorrows
and so lead us, through the cross,
to the joy of the resurrection.
Amen.
Bishop’s Memorandum - Liturgy during coronavirus outbreak (update 5)
Bishop’s Memorandum - Liturgy during coronavirus outbreak (update 3)