A "Welcome Home!" Letter from Archbishop Aymond

May 12, 2020
 
To: Clergy, Religious and Laity
 
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
 
Welcome home! Yes, our parish church is a home where we gather as God’s family to experience the risen Christ. So many have expressed to me a real hunger to receive Christ in the Eucharist during the last 2 months.
 
The “stay home mandate” called for a radical change in daily life and called us to patience. Thanks to health care workers, First Responders, community leaders and those who had to work on the front lines for the good of the community. Thank to parents, school administrators and teachers who created virtual schools for our children.
 
I know some are still hesitant to gather with others. Please recall that Catholics are dispensed from the obligation to celebrate Mass on Sunday during the pandemic. Heartfelt gratitude to our clergy who continue to lead God’s people in this challenging time. Pastors were very creative in finding ways to bring the church into the homes of so many people.
 
Please join me in asking God for his healing touch on those who are ill and peace to those who have lost loved ones in death.
 
In time more will be allowed to gather for Mass. Please be patient! Please wear a mask. Please observe social distancing. Please pray!
 
Wishing you God’s peace and protection, I am
 
Sincerely in Christ,
 
Most Reverend Gregory M. Aymond
Archbishop of New Orleans