Effective Friday, March 20, all regularly scheduled public celebrations of the Catholic Mass, sacraments and devotions are suspended until further notice. Priests of the Diocese of Burlington will continue to celebrate Mass privately for the intentions of their community and the Church. Baptisms, funerals and weddings may take place but will be strictly limited in attendance to immediate family members.

I have taken this course of action following the advice of local public officials and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines to limit gatherings to 10 people.  While this is a difficult time for the faithful, we must all do our part to ensure the health and well-being of the larger community by helping prevent the spread of COVID-19. We will continue to monitor the situation and make changes as necessary.

Plans are moving forward to “live-stream” a local celebration of the Mass daily beginning with this Sunday, March 22, at 10 a.m. Please check the diocesan website at vermontcatholic.org/covid-19/ for all TV Mass options, resources to keep Sunday holy and the latest updates.

LISTING OF CATHOLIC CLOSINGS AND OPENINGS

Parish offices — open

Diocesan offices — open with limited staffing

Parish food pantries — open (take-away only)

Parish soup kitchens — open (take-away only)

Vermont Catholic Charities — open

Parish churches — open daily (consult local church for scheduled hours)

Catholic schools — closed until April 15 (remote and online learning)

Parish religious education programs — closed (some remote and online learning)

Perpetual adoration chapels — closed

I ask that you pray daily the pope’s prayer to the Virgin Mary for protection from this pandemic (see vermontcatholic.org/covid-19/). Please continue to support your parish and the Diocese by giving online or via mail to ensure we remain financially stable during these difficult times.

My motto, “Trust in the Lord,” has gotten me through many difficult times. Lean on the Lord and know that He will guide you through to better days.