March 14 update from Fr. Sean

• We’ve received a few inquiries about Cardinal DiNardo’s message from yesterday that stated, among other things, that those who are over the age of 60 are “asked not to come to Mass.” The obligation to attend Mass is dispensed for all Catholics, regardless of age. We know, however, that many of you, again, regardless of age, still want to come and we want to be here for you, so we will still offer all of our regular Mass schedule for whoever is healthy and might wish to attend.

The recommendation that those over 60 refrain comes directly from city and public health officials who note that older adults are more susceptible to the virus and, should they contract it, for whom the conditions are quite serious. It’s a way for you to both stay healthy and for you to keep others healthy. Barring any public mandate, it is ultimately your own decision of where you go, be it Costco (God help you!) or church (God willing!). All are welcome at CtR, regardless of age. But do be aware of the advice of experts in the field. This is a serious virus and we should treat it as such, regardless if you are showing symptoms or not.

• If you decide not to come to Mass, it is not sinful. Cardinal DiNardo has dispensed the obligation for the time being. I would encourage you, however, to use the time you would normally spend at Mass (and maybe even more) to work on your spiritual life. Be still in your prayer. Turn off the TV and the internet. Reflect on the readings of the Mass (information below) and pray. The rosary would be especially beneficial.

• If you are unable to receive the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament, you are encouraged to receive Him in Spiritual Communion. The prayer below from St. Alphonsus Ligori is a wonderful way to pray in desire for the Lord when we are unable to receive Him. St. Thomas Aquinas once defined a Spiritual Communion as “an ardent desire to receive Jesus in the Most Holy Sacrament [in Communion at Mass] and in lovingly embracing Him as if we had actually received Him.”

• Here's the prayer from St. Alphonsus Ligori: "My Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love You above all things and I desire to receive You into my soul. Since I cannot now receive You sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace You as if You were already there, and unite myself wholly to You. Never permit me to be separated from You. Amen."

• This link from Give Us This Day has abundant resources for spiritual growth, including Morning and Evening Prayer, daily Mass readings, and more. https://giveusthisday.org/digital

• This link from the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston has a list of online Mass and liturgies. (We don’t have that capability just yet, but we are working on it!) https://www.archgh.org/onlinemass