Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
We are living through an unprecedented time that has upended our routines and daily lives, forcing us to remain apart and preventing our gatherings for liturgy and the celebration of the sacraments that define our Catholic life.
I have been so deeply moved by the response of our priests, deacons, and parishioners during the pandemic. So many are demonstrating such remarkable efforts to ensure that their fellow parishioners remain connected to our faith and liturgical life through live-streaming of liturgies, Eucharistic adoration, online spiritual reflections and special prayer services offered by priests, deacons and lay leaders.
For a list of resources, please visit: Coronavirus Resources
It is with gratitude and pride that I can report that a number of Catholic schools in our Archdiocese are utilizing 3D printers to make facemasks for hospitals, while also donating science lab goggles and other materials on hand to healthcare workers.
There are blood drives being hosted at our available facilities, along with efforts by some parishes to collect personal protective equipment essential for medical professionals treating those afflicted with the coronavirus. And then, of course, our devoted men and women of Catholic Charities continue their tremendous ministries – providing take-away meals, shelter and assistance for the homeless and those in dire need, senior care, and support for young people in unstable living arrangements.
Our parishes face an additional threat brought on by the coronavirus, however, given the inability to celebrate Masses with your presence and to benefit from your generous support which allows them to sustain their ministries and outreach. Currently, most are experiencing a significant decline in financial support. For that reason I urge you to continue to support your parish community by maintaining your weekly financial support even during these difficult circumstances.
Even as I appeal for your ongoing generosity to our parishes, I realize that many have been personally impacted by the coronavirus outbreak. As such, I urge you to give what you can and what your personal circumstances allow. If your parish offers automatic giving, please make use of this approach. Additionally, working with GiveCentral, the Archdiocese has recently established an even easier way for supporting your parish. While anyone may use the GiveCentral site, this capability is especially useful for parishes that do not already have the means to accept online donations. By visiting and clicking on the PARISH GIVING link, you can contribute directly to your own parish through an easy-to-use, secure portal. Simply select your parish from the menu and make your online contribution.
You may be assured that even though we are unable at this time to gather together around the Table of the Lord, the priests of our Archdiocese and I continue to offer Mass daily for your needs and intentions. I encourage you to share with me your personal concerns at PRAYER REQUESTS with the assurance that I will remember them during my daily Mass.
As we continue our Lenten journey toward the joy of His resurrection, let us unite constantly in prayer and support for one another with the sure knowledge that the Lord in His faithfulness will lead us through these days of uncertainty, calm our every fear and gather us together once again in His abiding love.
Faithfully Yours in Christ,
Most Reverend William E. Lori
Archbishop of Baltimore
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