Update 03/20/2020 - All Public Spaces Closed


Due to increasing restrictions and health precautions required for public spaces, and the fact that parishes are not equipped to meet these standards, Bishop Brennan has decided this morning that we simply cannot allow access to churches or other parish buildings. As he told the priests, this is not about closing churches but really about urging our parishioners to stay at home these next few weeks.

Therefore, effective immediately, we need to cancel our planned open hours for the church, as well as our planned hours for Confession and Eucharistic Adoration until further notice.

We friars are awaiting direction for how to continue to provide Confession to you, and will do everything we can, especially since this is such an important part of our ministry at St. Patrick.

We friars will also do all that we can virtually, including live-streamed Mass on our parish website (11:30am Monday-Friday; 9:00am Saturday and Sunday) and other events, such as Fr. Hayes’ presentation on prayer coming up this Monday at 12:30pm. We are hoping to add more resources for you soon. You can also reach the parish office by phone and e-mail, and we will do our best to stay connected to you.

I must also remind you that most parish expenses continue, including staff salaries and utilities, so I encourage you to continue your regular offertory contributions. While the most efficient way to do this is via our online giving page on our parish website, you can also send your donation envelopes by mail or use your bank's bill pay service.

While not completely unexpected, this is a great loss for all of us. At the same time, with every great trial like this, it is important to look at the glimmers of grace. Even Christ, on his Way of the Cross, brought unexpected graces to Simon of Cyrene, who helped him carry the Cross; Veronica, who wiped his face with her veil; and to his Mother, whom he met on the way. It is encouraging to hear from some parishioners that they are watching the live-streamed Mass and finding it helpful. Thank you for bearing with us, and stay tuned for further updates.

Our prayers are with you.

Peace,

Fr. Stephen, O.P.