SUBJECT: SACRAMENTAL GUIDELINES:

I know that you have been busy as I was today (March 14), providing answers to the many questions that have come your way. Thank you for handling these.

In light of the cancellation of all Sunday Masses throughout the Archdiocese, baptisms, Stations of the Cross, and other religious services and social events are also canceled. For all practical purposes, no sacraments or services shall be provided until further notice.

The celebration of funeral Masses falls into a different category. You might suggest to families that, if they are worried about coming to church, the burial take place now, with a memorial Mass celebrated at a later date. If they request, offer the funeral Mass first in the normal way, but have the family spread themselves throughout the church rather than sit close together. And of course, remember to sanitize hands and surfaces before and afterward.

Auxiliary bishops may decide, in consultation with pastors what to do about confirmations. Please let me know what adjustments you make.

As the Cardinal has suggested, churches may remain open solely for private prayer.

Please alert the priests of your deanery.

Salus Infirmorum, ora pro nobis.

Rev. Msgr. Joseph P. LaMorte, VG Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia