Dear Oratory Family,
 
As our parish communities continue into the Lenten wilderness, we are called to confront both the knows and unknowns of our lives.  We know we are loved by God beyond all telling.  How are we living this love each day? One of those unknowns is the COVID-19 virus and its impact. How we live in response to this reality is important for us individually and as members of a community. 
 
To continue to support each other and follow best practices we are implementing and encouraging you with the following actions:
 

• Holy Water fonts will be emptied and remain so for the foreseeable future. We encourage you to sign yourselves with the cross but without holy water. Recall those who have limited access to potable water and say a prayer for them.
• The sign of peace will be eliminated altogether. At the instruction of the diocesan bishop, we will move from the dialogue between the presider and the people: “The peace of the Lord be with you always.” “and with your spirit.” To The Lamb of God. This will help us remember to limit contact with one another in our public gatherings. Let us pray for peace in the minds and hearts of those affected by outbreaks around the world and within our own city. 
• As we continue our abstinence of the common chalice, all those sharing in Holy Communion are asked to receive the Lord in the hand rather than on the tongue. As we place one hand atop the other, we make a throne for the one who sees us through all struggles and welcome Jesus into our very selves as we consume the Bread of Hope. 
• Caring for each other is essential.  For those who live alone, are older or have ongoing health issues, it is important to have someone(s) know that you are well or if you are feeling unwell.  If there is someone you are concerned for, reach out to the person or let us know at the parishes and we can follow up. If you would be interested in helping reach out by phone  to those who might be vulnerable  send your contact info to [email protected]. 
• If you have not yet had a flu shot, consider getting one.  It’s never too late.
• If you were recently outside of the U.S. and have a fever, cough and/or shortness of breath, go to your doctor.
• If you doctor asks you to stay home:  Avoid going in public, to school or to work until you have been fever-free for at least 72 hours without the use of fever reducing drugs like Tylenol or ibuprofen. 
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve, not with your hands. 
• Wash hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. 
• Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
• If you are being harassed or stigmatized due to your race, nation of origin or other identities, you can report discrimination or harassment to the NYC Commission on Human Rights by calling 311 and saying “human rights.” We are all God’s children and we stand with those who are marginalized and resist the false narratives of blame and judgement. 

 
Fr. Michael Callaghan, c.o. and Fr. Mark Lane, c.o.