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Tuesday, March 17, 2020
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
Peace be with you all.
The invasion of the Covid-19 has created an unprecedented turmoil both in the world and in our hearts. Let us remember that the Lord is our Shepherd, who will hold our hands as we walk through the dark valley of fear and anxiety. We are asked to distance ourselves to protect each other and stop the spread of the virus. It is an act of charity. We all should do it with humble obedience and love. However, while social distancing and stay shelter-at-home are necessary steps, the spread of fear and anxiety already took place in each of us. These dual adverse effects of the virus must be conquered and replaced with God’s grace. Let’s rally together and invade the world of fear and anxiety with heavenly blessings obtained through prayers and sacrifices, even in the confinement of our own homes.
FIRST, WE MUST FOLLOW:
In light of the recent developments today, March 17th, Contra Costa County has ordered the “shelter-at-home order” until April 7th. The Diocese of Oakland, collaborating with the local Bay Area officials, is immediately putting into effect the following actions.
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After serious consideration of the grave health risk involved in public gatherings, effective immediately, we are suspending all publicly celebrated Masses/liturgies, scheduled events, ministry meetings, trainings, and conferences until April 7th.
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Since participation in public gatherings significantly increases the risk of contagion, effective immediately, the office will be closed.
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All parish office staff/volunteers are to remain at home during this period.
SECOND, WE MUST DO: A PRAYER CAMPAIGN.
We would like everyone to join in. The intention is to obtain graces from Heaven to overcome fear and anxiety in times of crisis. In doing so, we unite with one another in solidarity and faith, trusting in the Lord’s protection. We pray for those who have been infected and those who care for them.
The following is the plan of action:
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8:00-9:00 AM: DAILY MASS AND ADORATION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT.
We will be live-streaming the daily Mass, followed by the Holy Hour, on Facebook. During this time, we ask you to unite your sacrifices and prayers with our Lord in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. During the Holy Hour, we ask you to pray the Rosary with us from homes.
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3:00 PM: PRAY THE CHAPLET OF DIVINE MERCY.
We would like to invite all of us to pray together at this hour to emerge the world in the ocean of the Lord’s Divine Mercy. May the mercy of God bring us consolation and peace.
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SUNDAYS FROM 11:00-12:00 PM: LIVE-STREAM SUNDAY MASS ...
First, we will be live-streaming on Facebook the celebration of the Holy Eucharist in the Church. Please join us.
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EMERGENCY AND SACRAMENT OF ANOINTING OF THE SICK.
Please call us @ (925) 228 2230 Ext. 1006.
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WE WILL REMAIN CONNECTED WITH ALL VIA OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS:
Website (https://www.stcmtz.org/ )
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/OfficialStCatherineofSienaChurch/)
Myparishapp.
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Please download myparishapp to your phones.
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Step 1. Text App to number 88202.
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Step 2. Download the app via the link.
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Step 3. Search for St. Catherine of Siena Parish, Martinez.
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Step 4. Now stay connected!
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Step 5. Share with others, you know. Go to the menu, click share, and choose who you want to share!
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THOUGH THE OFFICE IS CLOSED, THE OFFICE STAFF WILL BE CHECKING THE PHONE MESSAGES to provide as much assistance as possible within this critical time. We ask that you please utilize the designated personnel extensions to leave our staff your message.
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THROUGHOUT THE DAY, PLEASE PRAY:
Prayer for the Pandemic Coronavirus situation
Almighty and merciful God,
who show your love to all creation everywhere,
hear graciously the prayers we make
for all those affected by the coronavirus
in various parts of the world.
We come before you asking
for quick control of the outbreak,
for the healing of those affected,
for the victims and their families.
We pray for the doctors,
nurses and healthcare workers
that they may courageously and cautiously
take care of those affected.
We pray for those doing the research
that an effective vaccine
to combat the sickness is speedily found.
We pray for the Government and health authorities
that they take appropriate steps
for the good of the People.
Lord, we ask all these
through the loving intercession of
St. Catherine of Siena,
St. Joseph, and Our Blessed Mother. Amen
We would like to leave you with the word of God:
“So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18).
“I WILL BE WITH YOU ALWAYS” (JESUS)!
Yours in Christ,Fr Anthony Le and Pastoral Staff
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