Dear Cathedral Parishioners,
Today marks the end of the first week of the Covid-19 pandemic. A great deal has happened in the last seven days. I hope you are well as we try to adapt to the major changes to daily life. Here is today’s update:
1. I concelebrated the private diocesan livestream Mass today (10:00 a.m.). A recording of the Mass can be viewed here: https://richmonddiocese.org/livestream/.
Father Michael Boehling, vicar general of the diocese, celebrated the Mass. As a health precaution, Bishop Knestout attended the Mass “in choir,” and at a safe distance. He preached the homily and, at the end of Mass, consecrated the Diocese of Richmond to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. That prayer was especially meaningful because it took place in the Cathedral, which is dedicated to the Sacred Heart. I’m told that some 6,000 people viewed the livestream Mass.
The readings for today’s Mass can be accessed here: http://usccb.org/bible/readings/032220.cfm.
The Cathedral looked particularly beautiful today, with pink flowers adorning the altar and tabernacle. I’ve attached photo so that you can see. (By way of exception, flowers are permitted in the church on the Fourth Sunday of Lent.) Those flowers, along with the rose-colored vestments, express the joy associated with the Fourth Sunday of Lent. They are signs of hope. Today is known as Laetare (Rejoice) Sunday, based on the Entrance Antiphon for Mass: “Rejoice [Latin: Laetare] Jerusalem, and all who love her. Be joyful, all who were in mourning; exult and be satisfied at her consoling breast” (Isaiah 66:10–11). As Bishop Knestout said in his homily, we can strive to rejoice even amid the present difficulty, for we know that God is close to us.
2. There has been an increase in the number of visitors to the church, either for prayer or to receive the Sacrament of Penance. About 40 people came by the church yesterday, Saturday.
As we commemorate the Lord’s Day, the words of Nehemiah to the Jewish people can stir our own souls to hope during this difficult time: “Do not be saddened this day, for rejoicing in the LORD is your strength!” (Nehemiah 8:10).
Let’s hang in there as best we can, and be good to another, especially to those in need.
Sincerely in Christ,
Father Tony Marques
The Cathedral's Extended Hours for
Individual Prayer
Monday through Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Saturday: 3:00–6:00 p.m.
Sunday: 12:00 N – 6:00 p.m.
Hours for Confession
(Penance or Reconciliation)
Wednesday: 5:00–6:00 p.m.
Friday: 5:00–6:00 p.m.
Saturday: 4:00–6:00 p.m.
Sunday: 12:00 N – 2:00 p.m.
Giving
Many people have asked how they can continue to financially support the Cathedral parish while public Masses are suspended. As you may know, the Cathedral operating budget is 100% dependent on Offertory contributions throughout the year. About 18% of our donations come through electronic giving. The balance of the giving comes through the regular Sunday collection (82%). With the suspension of public Masses, we will lose about half of our income.
It is also true that during this crisis, many people will suffer financial hardship through the temporary loss of employment, a reduction in investment-based retirement income, or the need to support other family members. Keeping in mind both of these realities, we ask that you consider the following, remembering that no one is expected to financially endanger themselves or their family:
Please continue to support the Cathedral parish through your donations:
- Mail in your usual donation amount by check to 823 Cathedral Place, Richmond, VA 23220
- Use Vanco, our online giving platform (Click Here). You can set up one-time or recurring donations using your bank account or credit card. If you previously have not set up your account in Vanco, you can do so easily. Remember, you have total control over your giving using Vanco.
- You can text the amount you wish to donate to (804) 315-0903.
At this time, the Cathedral parish has suspended all discretionary spending. We are focused on carefully stewarding the donations of our parishioners so that the essential work of the Church can continue. We will be here throughout this time of crisis. We are here for you! Please help us maintain that presence as you are able.
You are in our prayers; please keep us in yours.