Bishop Provost Comments on Church Re-Openings

May 12, 2020

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)

On May 1, 2020, I lifted the suspension on public liturgies in the Diocese of Lake Charles. Pastors are asked to use their discretion while respecting current guidelines regarding the number and manner of attendance 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 public gatherings. Effective May 15, 2020, State officials will allow gatherings of 25% of a building’s maximum occupancy. The directives published on April 28, 2020 detail what steps pastors must take in their churches. In preparation for this gradual process of reopening, pastors were asked to determine, with the assistance of the local fire marshal, the accurate maximum occupancy of their respective churches. Your pastors are asked to implement these directives issued on April 28, and I request your kind cooperation. Please consult your local parish for more information.

The dispensation from the obligation to attend Holy Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligations remains in effect. Those experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention and remain at home.

We continue to pray 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,