An Important Message from Our Rector Regarding COVID-19 March 12, 2020

March 12, 2020

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

First, and foremost, I ask you to pray for those affected by the COVID-19 virus, medical personnel, and all who are tirelessly working to ensure our health and safety.

I understand that this is a time of great anxiety; please know that we are here for you, we are monitoring the situation as it evolves, and we will remain vigilant in our pastoral response to this pandemic.

The Cathedral of St. Thomas More continues to follow current CDC precautions and have instituted the most recent diocesan guidelines:

Suspend the Sign of Peace
Empty Holy Water fonts
Clean all liturgical vessels with soap and water after each Mass, including any pyx that will be taken to a nursing home, hospital, the homebound, etc.
Clean all surfaces in the Cathedral, School, Offices, and Burke Hall regularly
NOTE: we have always ensured the cleanliness of our facilities and liturgical vessels, but are taking added precautions given the situation
Suspended the Mass obligation for those over the age of 60.
NOTE: Please remember that if you are ill, or are caring for a sick person, you are not required to attend Mass. We do ask that if you refrain from attending Mass, please offer time in prayer and/or contemplation. You may also view Mass on television.
We also ask that everyone follow current preventative CDC guidelines:

Wash your hands often and avoid touching your face and eyes
Avoid close contact with those who are sick and stay home if you are sick
Cover coughs and sneezes and throw used tissues away
Follow CDC guidelines regarding masks
For the most current information, please refer to Bishop’s statement: https://bit.ly/2TLfYkU and https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

This is a trying time for everyone throughout the world; but we will weather this storm together. We ask you to update your current information with us in order to keep you informed on latest developments. You may do so on the website or you may text CathedralSTM to 84576 (202-765-3441 for Spanish). We will continue to update you via all communication platforms. Thank you for your prayers and support. May God bless you.

Father Posey