Can't go to church? We're here to help!

There are many reasons why a person can't make it to church. At present, public officials are discouraging people from gathering in large groups, and this includes attendance at church services. The Catholic Church has issued temporary guidelines for parishes to protect all in attendance. It is also possible some Masses and classes will be canceled. Here's what you can do if your choices are limited. 

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If you can't get to Church, we will come to you!

Highlights

By Marshall Connolly (Catholic Online)
3/16/2020 (4 years ago)

Published in Living Faith

Keywords: Catholic Online, Catholic Online School, sick, faith, Daily Readings

LOS ANGELES, CA (California Network) - The present outbreak of coronavirus is unprecedented in modern times. The swift, sudden outbreak of pandemic illness has officials calling for the cancellation of public gatherings. The Church is issuing temporary guidelines to protect parishioners. It is possible in the weeks to come some Masses may be canceled. Classes and other gatherings may be canceled or rescheduled. 

We want you to know there are convenient options to help you engage with your faith during this time. Here's a few things we want you to know as the situation develops. 

1. The current situation is serious and the Church is doing all it can to serve the faithful while protecting you. Most of us have noticed the changes at Mass. The Holy Water fonts are empty, Communion of both species is suspended, the Body of Christ is not placed on our tongues, the sign of peace is no-contact, and the priest does not shake hands as we exit the church. Some events including catechism classes may be cancelled. In the near future, Masses may be canceled. While the Sacraments are of paramount importance, it is important they are administered in an ethical manner that does not compromise public safety. Please be reasonable and understanding. Know that many clergy will be attending to growing numbers of sick, and may become sick themselves due to exposure to the ill. We must be understanding and compassionate. 

2. Missing Mass due to illness or duty is acceptable. While we are obligated to observe the Lord's Day, this does not always mean attendance at Mass, specifically when doing so could exacerbate illness. If you have any symptoms of illness, or could be recently exposed to illness, you are implored to remain home. To knowingly make others ill is to cause harm to others. 

3. Catholic Online has resources for you. Missing Mass or catechism does not mean you cannot engage with your faith! The good news is Catholic Online and Catholic Online School have content you can use to stay engaged. 

Catholic Online posts the Daily Readings each day. For a deeper dive into the Daily Readings, Catholic Online School offers the Daily Readings with Questions for Reflection. Presented by Deacon Keith Fourier, the Questions for Reflection offer a clear understanding of each reading and questions to inspire deeper thought. 

We must add that the Daily Readings online do not suffice for attendance at Mass, but they are an acceptable devotion for those who are sick, shut in, or compelled to miss Mass due to duties of state (soldiers, doctors, nurses, first responders, & etc.).  

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4. For students of catechism and school who are home, Catholic Online School provides a range of enjoyable courses for stay-at-home study. There are courses on confirmation, the Ten Commandments, the Bible, the saints and prayers and much more. Review the list of courses and enroll to get started! 

Catholic Online and Catholic Online School are here to help you grow in love and faith. Please share these wonderful resources with your family, friends, neighbors, and especially your parish communities. Let us pray for the healing of the sick and the strength of the clergy who are courageously serving the sick during this time of great need. 

Finally, for those who can support this critical mission, especially during this time, please consider giving generously to support Catholic Online School.