Bishop Begins Gradual Reopening of Churches

April 28, 2020
Tuesday

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

“I rejoiced when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord.’” (Psalm 122:1)

Effective May 1, 2020, I am lifting the suspension on public liturgies in the Diocese of Lake Charles. The faithful are hungry for the Eucharist.

Pastors may use their discretion while respecting current guidelines regarding the number and manner of attendance (i.e. 10-person limit and social distancing) to ensure that the faithful have access to the Eucharist. Our liturgical tradition puts many options at our disposal.

As we all know, the COVID-19 virus remains a menace to the public’s health. However, the State Government has indicated that, in the event of continued improvements, there will be a gradual loosening of restrictions on social gatherings. At that time, State officials hope to allow gatherings of 25% of a building’s maximum occupancy. In view of this possibility and the lifting of the suspension on public liturgies, I am issuing a Directive attached to this pastoral letter. This document details what steps pastors must take in reopening churches. In preparation for this gradual process of reopening, pastors should determine, with the assistance of the local fire marshal, an accurate maximum occupancy of their respective churches. Your pastors are asked to implement these directives, and I request your kind cooperation.

On Friday, May 1, 2020, a day dedicated to St. Joseph the Worker, I will consecrate the Diocese of Lake Charles to Mary, Mother of the Church, joining Archbishop Jose Gomez, President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, who will lead the nation in this same consecration.

Let our prayers remain intense for an end to this pandemic and for those infected with the virus. O Lord, grant the deceased rest and eternal peace. May Our Lady Star of the Sea, continue to pray for our safety and health, as I remain always in prayer for you and

Devotedly yours in our Lord,