Dear Parish Family,
 
The latest information we received from our diocese has several implications for Holy Week and Easter. As we move toward Palm Sunday and anticipate the joy of the Risen Christ, these latest requirements are so disappointing yet, sadly, very justified considering the rapid spread of coronavirus in our state.
 
I encourage everyone to read the condensed version of  Bishop Serratelli’s directives regarding Palm Sunday,  Holy Week and Easter found at the bottom of this mesage.. 
 
Although we will be celebrating these sacred liturgies distanced physically, we know that we will be united in spirit and heart, strengthened by the hope of Resurrection and by the bonds of our loving, caring faith community. Father Jhon and I share your disappointment in this unfolding of events, but we also look forward to being able to celebrate these meaningful liturgies with you, if only through the blessing of modern technology. 
 
This is the schedule for our virtual Masses and services from Palm Sunday through Easter:
   
In the peace of Christ,
Father Paddy

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Due to existing coronavirus concerns and the projected spread of the virus in our state, the following guidelines are mandated out of an abundance of caution and concern for the people of Paterson Diocese:
 
Chrism Mass (April 6, 2020): The Mass is postponed to a date sometime April 12, and to be announced later. Sacraments are completely valid and licit with the use of sacred oils consecrated and blessed last year.
 
Holy Week, the Triduum and Easter: These will be celebrated without the physical participation of the faithful. Parishes are asked to livestream Holy Week services and Easter where possible, or to provide these services pre-recorded to their people.
 
Blessing of the Easter Food: This is not possible at the church or in any other public setting. Parishes are asked to provide this blessing virtually where possible.
 
 
Additional Guidelines on Specific Celebrations:
 
Palm Sunday: Palms are not to be blessed for distribution at this time, and all forms of procession are suspended. Palms will be blessed and distributed at a later date, to be determined.
 
Holy Thursday: Since the celebration of the Mass will be virtual, the ritual of washing of the feet will be omitted.
 
Good Friday: This liturgy is to be celebrated virtually and, thus, without veneration of the cross.
 
Stations of the Cross: This is suspended, but may be moved to a later date.
 
Easter Vigil: This liturgy, as with all others, will be celebrated virtually without the faithful present.
 
Plenary Indulgence: Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, has decreed:
“The gift of special indulgences is granted to the faithful suffering from the COVID-19 sickness, commonly known as Coronavirus, as well as to health workers, their relatives and all those that take care of them in any capacity.”
“Rejoice in your hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer” ( Romans 12:12). The words written by Saint Paul to the Church of Rome resound throughout the history of the Church and orient the judgment of the faithful in face of every suffering, sickness, and calamity.