My Beloved in Jesus Christ Our Lord,
It goes completely against my desire to share the Bread of Life, the Eucharist, with my flock, but after reviewing our new guidelines from the Eparchy and our Apostolic Administrator I do not see any other option but to close attendance to our celebration of the liturgy and reception of communion this Sunday and until conditions improve. This has been a very difficult decision that has involved many phone calls, emails, texting, prayer and reflection. Again, there will be no public distribution of the Most Holy Eucharist to the faithful. Unless you have been specifically asked to assist in the liturgical celebration I must ask you to attend our liturgy via our live streaming link and make a spiritual communion (see attached).
We will continue to evaluate State and Eparchial regulations and guidance on a weekly basis. As soon as we are able we will invite you to return home to your church and once again receive the body and blood of our Lord.
It feels difficult to have to ask for donations at this time, but even amid this pandemic, the post office has not stopped bringing the bills to the parish office. In order to have a church building in good repair waiting for you upon your return, please continue to send your tithing in the mail to the church. You may also try our new online tithing platform and save yourself the stamp. It may be accessed at: https://stjohnchrysostom.org/one-time-donation/
(Editor’s NB, you can also setup recurring monthly or weekly donations on these pages: https://stjohnchrysostom.org/weekly-tithe/ or https://stjohnchrysostom.org/monthly-tithing/ )
Summary:
- All of the faithful are dispensed from the obligation to attend Divine Liturgy on Sundays and Holy Days.
- All other parish activities are to be suspended.
- The Mystery of Repentance (Confession) can be celebrated so long as there is adequate ventilation and a minimum 6 foot distance between the priest and penitent. This will be done by appointment only – 206-329-9219
- The faithful are encouraged to view/listen to/observe celebrations via live stream (or video)
- Churches or chapels can remain open for private prayer with proper protocols regarding social distancing to be observed. This will be by appointment only for management purposes.
- At present, this policy affects the celebrations of Holy Week and Pascha, but this will be reviewed and a final decision made no later than April 3rd.
Out of obedience to our Church authorities and concern for everyone, we will not be holding any public liturgies at the parish until we are authorized to do so.
Most humbly in Christ,Fr. Michael