O Immaculate Heart of Mary, we entrust ourselves to you, Health of the Sick.
At the foot of the Cross, you participated in Jesus’ pain, with steadfast faith.
Patroness of the Diocese of Jefferson City, you know what we need.
We are certain of the power of your intercession, so that, as you did at Cana of Galilee,
joy and feasting might return after this moment of trial.
Help us, Mother of Divine Love, to conform ourselves to the Father’s will
and to do what Jesus tells us:
He who taught us to “love one another, as I have loved you”
took our sufferings upon Himself and bore our sorrows
to bring us, through the Cross, to the joy of the Resurrection.
Bring under your mantel of protection all who provide care for the sick and
minister to their needs, as your Son implores us to do for one another.
V. We seek refuge under your protection, O Holy Mother of God.
R. Do not despise our pleas and deliver us from every danger, O glorious and blessed Virgin. Amen.
Bishop W. Shawn McKnight announced March 17 that all public Masses will be suspended in the Diocese of Jefferson City, beginning on Wednesday, March 18 and until at least April 3.
This means all Catholics are dispensed from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass in person.
Online opportunities are listed on the diocesan website, diojeffcity.org, and some parishes will be able to provide online Masses. Catholics are encouraged to check with their local parish regarding online Masses.
“This is in keeping with the federal directives and other public entities in our area. We offer this decision as part of our effort to help stem the spread of the coronavirus,” Bishop McKnight stated. “I know you join me in concern for all who are being affected by the rapid spread of the coronavirus.”
In addition, parishes have been instructed to make the following changes, beginning March 18:
Bishop McKnight urged all people to remain mindful of their responsibility to serve the community in terms of time, talent and treasure in this extraordinary hour of need.
“You may register your volunteer capacity on our website,” he stated. “Parishes are organizing Disaster Responder Teams to serve those immediately impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Please continue your tithes to your parishes by postal mail or online, if the parish offers that option.”
The bishop stated his profound gratitude to all who are working tirelessly to mitigate the effects of the pandemic.
“I pray the efforts we are doing, as a people of faith, will provide tangible support, encouragement and spiritual hope to our communities,” he stated.
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2207 W. Main St.
Jefferson City MO 65109-0914
(573) 635-9127
editor@diojeffcity.org