Shelter in Place Order / Opening of Churches: Clarification by Archbishop Jose H. Gomez

As you know, last week Mayor Garcetti extended the Shelter In Place through July 2020. Therefore, the Archbishop has dispensed Catholics from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass until further notice. 

The Archbishop is looking at different models/stages for re-opening the churches.He will continue to work with the health departments in the Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties to see what options will be available. He said that he must go slowly so as to ensure the health and safety of everyone. 

All Confirmations has been postponed. The confirming bishop will contact the local pastor to arrange a new date; at that point it will be determined whether the bishop will confirm or if the pastor will be delegated as the confirming priest. (It is my sincere hope/desire that we have a bishop to celebrate this wonderful sacrament.) 

The other restrictions regarding the celebration of the Sacraments remain in place until further notice. 

The Archbishop empathizes with all of us as we struggle with the sad consequences of the COVID 19 virus: sickness, loss of life, financial and the suspension of the sacraments. I will keep you informed.