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DIOCESE OF ORANGE RESPONSE TO CORONAVIRUS

3/14/2020

Editor’s Note: The message below is sent to all Diocese of Orange staff and parishioners on behalf of the Office of Communications. This information is being reviewed and updated continually.

As news surrounding coronavirus continues to emerge, Catholics across Orange County are asked to take necessary precautions to stop the spread of this virus. We acknowledge the importance of washing of our hands, “social distancing” and “flattening the curve” to restrict its spread.

The mission of the Church is the salvation of souls. We consider it essential that churches remain open for worship for the care of souls, just as hospitals remain open for care of the body. While other parish-related gatherings are being canceled, during this time of crisis the Church is called to provide hope and comfort.

The public’s health and safety are paramount to the Diocese of Orange. We are monitoring the health situation and will make changes as needed.

Catholics and all Christians are urged to join Most Rev. Kevin Vann, Bishop of Orange, in praying for those who are ill, health care professionals and caregivers. We ask for the protection of our Lord Jesus Christ and the intercession of our Blessed Mother.

As a community of faith, let us hold one another in prayer during this challenging time.

 

Mass

Bishop Vann announces that all Catholics in Orange County who are ill, concerned about becoming ill or wish to stay away from large crowds will be dispensed from their obligation to attend Mass. Sunday Mass will be livestreamed in English at 9:45 a.m. at facebook.com/christcathedralca. Daily Mass will be livestreamed at 8:15 a.m. on Monday through Saturday and on Sunday at 9 a.m. at  http://stedward.com/stedcast/.

Catholics are encouraged to reach out to their local parish website for additional Mass livestream schedules.

 

Schools

The Diocese of Orange is canceling on-site classes and student-related activities from March 16 – April 20, 2020. This includes any planned school events such as fundraisers, community events as well as field trips. On-site classes are foreseen to resume on April 20, 2020. Course content will be delivered utilizing the Diocesan distance learning protocol which has been distributed to all schools.

For updates regarding this closure, please visit our OC Catholic Schools website at https://occatholicschools.org/.