7/13/2020 Letter from Achbiship Jose Gomez on new government directives.
JULY 14, 2020
Dear Parishioners:
Yesterday, Governor Newsom reissued the order for the closure of indoor worship services (Mass) for all churches in the 30 California counties that are seeing a rise in the number of COVID 19 cases.This applies to Ventura County where we are located.
Early this morning, Archbishop Gomez issued guidelines for the Celebration of Masses and the Sacraments for the parishes in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Those guidelines indicate that these liturgies (Masses, Confessions, Weddings and Funerals, etc.) may only take place outdoors. The guidelines specifically state people must wear masks, must be socially distanced (at least six feet apart) and have their hands sanitized.
The only practical place on our campus where this can take place is the Gathering Space. The parking lot is not practical due to a lack of electricity and restroom facilities. The Gathering Space in front of the church has both electricity and nearby restroom facilities. However, there is a limit to the space of 80 people that we can safely accommodate. Also, due to the elements of weather, we have to shade the area and have purchased 4 tents for this purpose at a cost of $1,200.
Another problem with outdoor liturgies is that our music program cannot be held outdoors. Paul Fagundes, our music director, has tried to work this out in time for our liturgies this Sunday but at this time is unable to do so.
Therefore, it has been decided that we will have outdoor liturgies this Saturday, July 18 at 5:00 PM and Sunday, July 19 at 9:00 AM. There will be a Mass livestreamed from the inside of the church with music at 11:00 AM. People cannot be present inside the church for this Mass. Remember, the Archbishop has continued to dispense all Catholics in the Los Angeles Archdiocese from the obligation to attend Sunday Masses. This schedule will continue until further notice.
In order to accommodate people for the Masses this Sunday you must make a reservation for the Mass. Walk-ups cannot be accommodated. Reservations can be made at our website www.stmaxchurch.org.
I want to thank the many parishioners who have sent messages to me to offer their help during this challenging time. Your kindness is greatly appreciated.
I am sure things will continue to change. In the meantime let us continue to pray for one another and to pray for those affected by the COVID-19 virus, physically, emotionally, economically or spiritually. Let us pray for those who minister to those with the virus and their families, especially our healthcare workers. Finally, let us pray that an effective treatment for COVID-19 may be found and that a vaccine will be developed soon.
Assuring you of the support of my prayers for you and your families, I remain,
Sincerely yours in Christ, Reverend Monsignor Paul Albee