COVID-19 Pandemic Response

February 6, 2021

From: Office of Bishop <bishop@oakdiocese.org> Sent: Saturday, February 6, 2021 5:00 PM To: Diocesan Communications <Dcommunications@oakdiocese.org> Subject: Reopening for Indoor Worship in the Diocese of Oakland Dear brother Priests, Deacons, Seminarians, Chancery, Cathedral and Parish Staff, lay and religious faithful of the Diocese of Oakland: Last night the US Supreme Court ruled that Governor Newsome's executive orders shutting our churches for indoor worship was unconstitutional. I welcome this decision by the Court. They also ruled that capping attendance at 25% and restricting congregational singing was reasonable and permitted. Therefore, effective immediately, you may (not must) reopen your parish church for indoor worship at 25% of your occupancy, as long as you continue to follow social distancing and wear a face covering. We were in a similar situation last summer with indoor worship, and the protocols we established then are still valid. Some parishes have small churches, and have successfully transitioned to outdoor worship, where more people can be accommodated. You and your parish leadership team will need to decide if you prefer to transition back inside, even if it means scheduling more Masses, to observe the 25% capacity limit. Some parishes may decide to remain outside for the time being. That's fine too. But I do not want any parish forbidding all in-person worship. It seems clear to me that the Court decision upholds the State's right, for now, to restrict congregational singing. (Too much singing is not usually a problem in Catholic Churches). I think that is wise. However we have interpreted that to mean there can still be some musical accompaniment to the Mass, e.g. a cantor or very small schola, and an organist. Some churches have placed the musicians and cantor behind a plexiglass shield. Some have placed them in the choir loft - or at a safe distance from others in the congregation. I still recommend keeping at least one Mass live streamed for those who are not healthy enough to return to in-person worship at all. The dispensation from the Sunday obligation remains in place until further notice. I wish this decision had come in time for Christmas. But I look forward to celebrating Ash Wednesday, Lent, and Holy Week indoors, especially the Chrism Mass with all you brother priests. God bless, Bishop Barber

February 6, 2021

From the office of our Bishop Michael Barber, Statement by Bishop Michael C. Barber, SJ, Diocese of Oakland, CA, Concerning February 5, 2021 Scotus Ruling Re-Easing Restrictions On Indoor Worship "I am grateful the US Supreme Court has struck down the California governor's executive order which shut our churches for indoor worship. I am glad churches and synagogues will fall under the same safety rules which govern retail shopping and gambling casinos, and we will no longer be singled out for arbitrary restriction by the government. I am grateful to the Harvest Rock Church and South Bay Church for fighting these cases to uphold our right to worship, guaranteed by the US Constitution. We look forward to welcoming our congregations back inside our churches, at 25% capacity, and following all COVID safety procedures. The High Court's decision is a victory for religious liberty rights for all Americans." The Diocese of Oakland includes Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the Bay Area and includes approximately 375,000 Catholics in 82 parishes.// "Estoy agradecido de que la Corte Suprema de los Estados Unidos haya anulado la orden ejecutiva del gobernador de California que cerraba nuestras iglesias para el culto en interiores. Me alegra que las iglesias y sinagogas caigan bajo las mismas reglas de seguridad que gobiernan las tiendas minoristas y los casinos de juego, y ya no seremos señalados por restricciones arbitrarias por parte del gobierno. Agradezco a Harvest Rock Church y South Bay Church por luchar contra estos casos para defender nuestro derecho a la adoración, garantizado por la Constitución de los Estados Unidos. Esperamos dar la bienvenida a nuestras congregaciones nuevamente dentro de nuestras iglesias, al 25% de su capacidad, y siguiendo todos los procedimientos de seguridad de COVID. La decisión del Tribunal Superior es una victoria para los derechos de libertad religiosa de todos los estadounidenses". La Diócesis de Oakland incluye los condados de Alameda y Contra Costa en el Área de la Bahía e incluye aproximadamente 375,000 Católicos en 82 parroquias.

November 18, 2020

From: Office of Bishop <bishop@oakdiocese.org> Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 3:50 PM To: Diocesan Communications <Dcommunications@oakdiocese.org> Subject: Updates for Worship in the Diocese of Oakland - Effective November 18, 2020 Dear Fathers, Deacons, Seminarians, Chancery, Parish, Cathedral and CFCS Staff: As you have seen from the news reports, as of 18 November, the Governor has placed Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the Purple Tier category, along with 39 other counties in the state. The rising number of infections, hospitalizations and deaths from Covd-19 made this change necessary. Our first consideration since this crisis began has always been the spiritual and physical health of our faithful. We rely on medical professionals and government requirements to inform our decisions. The following guidelines apply to Masses, weddings, funerals, baptisms, confirmation, quinceañeras and other sacraments and rituals. It is not permissible to have indoor worship with a congregation at this time. However, I would like our churches to remain open for individual private prayer outside of scheduled worship times. The three options we have for worship at this time are: 1.Virtual (preferred) 2.Outdoor, seated or standing (see attachment) 3.In car, in the parking lot (see attachment) The safest option, by far, is to livestream Masses, and encourage the faithful to make a “spiritual communion” from home. Holy Communion may be distributed outside of Mass, preferably at the church doors or somewhere else outside. Care should be taken to protect the sacrament from the wind and rain. Mass may be conducted in the parking lot, with people remaining in their cars, but they must exit the car to receive communion. Obligation to attend Mass remains lifted until further notice, and the distribution of the Precious Blood is suspended indefinitely. Outdoor Mass may be held, as long as chairs or standees remain at least 6 feet apart, and all wear masks. I ask priests to continue offering Mass for your people daily in your church, even if the faithful may not be present. Applicable excerpts from the diocesan protocol are reprinted, attached for your convenience. I have written the attached article for The Catholic Voice to be published November 23, 2020 to encourage the faithful and stress the importance of the Domestic Church. Please post on your websites. Our Lady, Health of the Sick, you have always come to the aid of the Church in times of plague, pestilence and danger. We pray to you now to intercede for us with your Son. Be assured of my continued prayers, Michael C. Barber, S.J. Bishop of Oakland Office: 510-267-8316 Bishop@oakdiocese.org

November 5, 2020

Parishes in Contra Costa County to return to lower occupancy as of Nov. 6. Due to a marked increase in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, Contra Costa County has modified the occupancy level for indoor gatherings. Effective Friday, Nov. 6, parishes may only allow indoor attendance at Masses to be at 25% occupancy or 100 people, whichever is fewer-the same as Alameda County. "We must all continue to be attentive to published precautions and protocols," Bishop Michael C. Barber, SJ, said. "Health officials caution that it is now more important than ever to follow the state health guidance for physical distancing and use of face coverings, to keep everyone safe and healthy during the upcoming holiday season." Las parroquias del condado de Contra Costa reduciran la ocupación a partir del 6 de noviembre. Debido a un marcado aumento en casos de COVID-19 y hospitalizaciones, el condado de Contra Costa ha modificado el nivel de ocupación para reuniones en interiores. A partir del viernes 6 de noviembre, las parroquias solo pueden permitir la asistencia en interiores a las misas con un 25% de ocupación o 100 personas, lo que sea menor, lo mismo que en el condado de Alameda. "Todos debemos seguir atentos a las precauciones y protocolos publicados", dijo el obispo Michael C. Barber, SJ. "Los funcionarios de salud advierten que ahora es más importante que nunca seguir las pautas de salud del estado para el distanciamiento físico y el uso de cubiertas faciales, para mantener a todos seguros y saludables durante la próxima temporada navideña".

October 30, 2020

From the Office of the Bishop of Oakland, we received this important notice: "Contra Costa County has advanced to a less-restrictive COVID tier. Effective immediately, "Worship services are allowed indoors at 50% occupancy or 200 people, whichever is fewer." This is for parishes in Contra Costa County ONLY. The decision to allow higher capacity for indoor services comes from Contra Costa County." Let's keep practicing the safety guidelines at all times. We are all working together, and together we will get through. Thanks be to God. De la Oficina del Obispo de Oakland, recibimos este importante aviso: "El Condado de Contra Costa ha avanzado a un nivel COVID menos restrictivo. Con efecto inmediato, "Los servicios religiosos están permitidos en interiores con un 50% de ocupación o 200 personas, lo que sea menor". Esto es SOLO para parroquias en el condado de Contra Costa. La decisión de permitir una mayor capacidad para los servicios de interior proviene del condado de Contra Costa". Sigamos practicando los parametros de seguridad en todo momento. Todos estamos trabajando juntos, y juntos avanzaremos más. Demos gracias a Dios Dear Brother Priests, Deacons, Chancery, Parish, CFCS, Cathedral Staff and Diocesan Seminarians: Contra Costa County has advanced to a less-restrictive COVID tier. Effective immediately, “Worship services are allowed indoors at 50% occupancy or 200 people, whichever is fewer.” This is for parishes in Contra Costa County ONLY. The decision to allow higher capacity for indoor services comes from Contra Costa County. If your parish already submitted a reopening plan and received permission to resume indoor Masses from me for the last reopening, Pastors may resume indoor Masses at this larger occupancy, at their discretion. We must all continue to be attentive to published precautions and protocols. Health officials caution that it is now more important than ever to follow the state health guidance for physical distancing and use of face coverings, to keep everyone safe and healthy during the holiday season and to avoid a return to the red tier. With the assurance of my continued prayers, The Most Reverend Michael C. Barber, S.J. Bishop of Oakland

October 4, 2020

Dear brothers and sisters of IHM, As you may have heard this past week, we are now allowed to gather up to 100 people inside the church for our liturgical celebrations. For this reason, beginning on Sunday October 11, we will renew our Saturday 5:00 pm English Vigil Mass celebration in Church, as well as our 7:30am and 12:30pm English Mass celebrations in addition to the 9:00am and 10:45am (Spanish). (also a 2:00pm Spanish Mass celebration is renewed). The Traditional Latin Mass will be moved back to 5:00pm on Sunday. (no confessions before the 5:00pm Latin Mass is available for the moment). Only the 9:00am, 10:45am and 5:00pm Holy Mass celebrations will be live streamed on YouTube and Facebook simultaneously. Once again, we do not have seating reservation, we will be accommodating people under the "first come first serve" principle, allowing only 100 people inside the temple, without exceptions. We recommend arriving earlier. We kindly ask for your cooperation to keep practicing the safety guidelines from the CDC and Health Department to maintain a safe gathering in the Church. Face masks are always required to be worn in church, except when you approach to receive Holy communion if you are properly prepared to do so. If anyone does not feel safe inside the temple, you are still welcome to stay at the plaza or at the Stations of the Cross garden, or at the parking lot inside your vehicle. Speakers and FM short- reach radio transmission will remain available. The precept of the Sunday Mass obligation attendance in the temple is still dispensed in our Diocese until further notice from our Bishop, especially for those who are immunocompromised or are over 60 years old. In such cases, we recommend you participate virtually from the safety of your homes. Thank you for your patience. We will get through this together with the blessing of our God. Queridos hermanos y hermanas de IHM, Como habrán escuchado la semana pasada, se nos va a permitir reunir hasta 100 personas dentro de la iglesia para nuestras celebraciones litúrgicas. Por esta razón, a partir del domingo 11 de octubre, renovaremos nuestra celebración de la Misa de Vigilia en inglés del sábado a las 5:00 pm, (No así la de español hasta nuevo aviso). Así como también el domingo se añaden celebraciones de misa en Ingles de 7:30 a. m. y 12:30 p.m. y continuaremos con 9:00 a.m. y 10:45 a.m. (en español). La Misa Tradicional Latina se trasladará de vuelta a las 5:00 pm del domingo. (no habrá confesiones antes de esta Misa de 5:00pm por el momento). Sólo las celebraciones de la Santa Misa de las 9:00 a.m., 10:45 a.m. y 5:00 p.m. se transmitirán en vivo por nuestras redes sociales. Una vez más, no tendremos reservación de lugares en el templo si no que trabajaremos bajo la premisa de " entra quien llegue primero" permitiendo sólo 100 personas dentro del templo, sin excepciones. Les suplicamos amablemente su cooperación para que siga practicando las recomendaciones del Departamento de Salud y CDC para mantener una congregación segura dentro y fuera de la Iglesia. Se requiere el uso obligatorio de cubrebocas en todo momento, excepto cuando te acerques para recibir la Santa Comunión si estás adecuadamente preparado para hacerlo. Si alguien no se siente seguro dentro del templo aun, es bienvenido a permanecer en la plaza, o en el jardín de las Estaciones de la Cruz, o en el estacionamiento dentro de su vehículo. Los altavoces y la transmisión de FM de radio de corto alcance seguirán estando disponibles. El precepto que obliga la misa dominical en el templo sigue dispensando en nuestra diócesis hasta nuevo aviso de nuestro Obispo, especialmente para aquellos que están inmunocomprometidos o tienen más de 60 años, en todo caso se recomienda participar virtualmente desde sus hogares. Agradecemos su paciencia. Atravesaremos esta situación juntos con la bendición de Dios.

July 12, 2020

As you probably already heard, Contra Costa County mandated earlier today that beginning tonight, all public gatherings inside of churches (and other business) are temporarily prohibited due to an alleged increase in COVID-19 cases in the County. Therefore, we will continue to celebrate the holy sacrifice of the Mass without inside faithful presence. Those weekday Mass goers may continue to attend Mass if they are not sick or immune compromised at the plaza or in their cars. An FM radio signal, 87.9 is available in the parish so you can tune in and listen to the celebration. Live-stream Masses will continue to be broadcast in our YouTube channel, and in our official Facebook account temporarily under the name of father Arturo Bazan. If you have questions about other ceremonies, please contact the office staff any weekday from 9am to 3pm, they will be able to help you better. Let us continue to pray for each other as we get through difficult times./ Como probablemente ya haya escuchado, el Condado de Contra Costa ordenó hoy que a partir de esta noche, todas las reuniones públicas dentro de las iglesias (y otros negocios) quedan temporalmente prohibidas debido a un supuesto aumento de los casos de Covid 19 en el Condado. Por lo tanto, continuaremos celebrando el sacrificio sagrado de la Misa sin presencia de feligreses en el templo. Los asistentes a la misa de entre semana pueden continuar asistiendo en la plaza o en sus automóviles, siempre que no se encuentren enfermos o esten vulenrables a contraer el virus debido a su edad o salud debil. Una señal de radio FM, 87.9, está disponible en la parroquia para que pueda sintonizar y escuchar la celebración. Las misas de transmisión en vivo continuarán transmitiéndose en nuestro canal de YouTube y en nuestra cuenta oficial de Facebook temporalmente bajo el nombre del padre Arturo Bazan. Si tiene preguntas sobre otras ceremonias, comuníquese con el personal de la oficina cualquier día de la semana de 9 a.m. a 3 p.m., ellos podrán ayudarlo mejor. Sigamos orando los unos por los otros mientras pasamos por tiempos difíciles.

June 28, 2020

Immaculate Heart of Mary Church Future Reopening

Plan

With restrictions and limitations, under the guidance

of

Bishop Michael Barber and Contra Costa County

Health,

IHM Church plans to reopen for (inside 100 people)

worship on July 1, 2020.

Prior to reopening, IHM staff and ministers

will undergo extensive health and safety training.

+

Before Mass All ministers will wash their hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds at the beginning of the Mass and after as well. In Church, Hall, Plaza and Meditation Garden To ensure that we do not exceed the persons capacity in the church, and in the Hall, the ushers will count the number of parishioners. Space in Plaza and in the Meditation Garden will be utilized to limit the number so that no one is turned away. Please bring your own chairs. Thanks. All are encouraged to choose one Mass per week in the church so that more people can celebrate in-person. There are daily Masses throughout the week to accommodate more people. Worship Aids If you like to follow along with the prayers at Mass, the readings will be printed in the Bulletin. Please bring the bulletin home after use. There will not be worship Missals available in the church. Only our choir will sing and there will be 4 choir members per mass. Wear a Face Covering Guided by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), everyone must wear a face covering that covers the nose and mouth. Arriving at Church Arrive Early Please arrive 30 minutes early to allow time to park and be counted. First come first serve. Entrance and Exit Enter only at the Church front doors that face Fairview Avenue. The side doors are exits only. Inside the Church Our holy water fonts will continue to be empty for safety. To ensure proper social distancing, please stay on the marked signs on the floor. Members of one household may sit together in one place. 6-Foot Distance In the church, parish hall, meditation garden and the plaza, 6-foot physical distancing policy will be implemented. Seating will be reduced to allow for more space between parishioners. Liturgy To reduce contact, the presentation of the gifts has been removed. Sign of Peace We will offer peace in the silence of our hearts. Communion The Precious Blood (Cup) will not be available. The faithful can receive Communion in the hand or on the tongue. After Mass No gather for fellowship in the Church, hall, plaza, or parking lots after Mass. Print bulletins will be available. Please see the digital copies at www.ihmbrentwood.com Cleaning Touched areas of the church will be cleaned after each Mass. Adoration Chapel Will remain closed. Confession We continue to have Confession in the church. Tuesdays at 6:00– 7:00 PM., and Saturdays at 3:30 – 4:30 PM Livestream Mass Mass will continue to be livestreamed on Youtube. Those at Risk Anyone who is in an at-risk health group or does not feel comfortable attending a public gathering should stay home. Also, anyone who is sick or has been exposed to the coronavirus should refrain from attending a public Mass as it is an act of Christian charity to safeguard the health of others. Until further notice, Bishop Barber continues to dispense the faithful from the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and holy days. Clergy Instructions The priest and deacon must wear a face covering for the distribution of Holy Communion. Priest does not wear a face covering when presiding at Mass since he is far away from the people. Only the priests, deacon and trained Eucharist’s Ministers are to distribute Communion during the Mass. If the priest’s, deacon’s and ministers’ hands come into contact with the faithful’s hand or tongue, disinfectant wipes or a clean, unused cloth and a bowl of disinfectant will be available for the priest, deacon or ministers to sanitize their fingers. More communications will follow via Flocknotes, the IHM website, live stream Masses and emails. Normas Para La Reapertura 1. Al comienzo de la misa y al terminar, todos los ministros se lavarán las manos con jabón y agua caliente durante 20 segundos. 2. El templo, el salón, la plaza y el jardín de meditación serán utilizados durante cada Misa para asegurarnos de no exceder la capacidad autorizada de personas en la iglesia. Los ujieres acomodaran a las personas conforme vayan llegando. No se permitirá el apartado de lugares, sin excepciones. Favor de traer sus propias sillas para afuera. 3. Se recomienda llegar 30 minutos antes de la celebración para facilitar el conteo y disponibilidad de lugares. 4. El uso de cubierta facial es mandatorio en todo momento mientras se encuentre dentro de las instalaciones parroquiales. 5. Habrá una cantidad limitada del boletín con las lecturas y los cantos impresos en la iglesia. También puede descargar el boletín en nuestra pagina web o en la descripción de cada misa en línea en YouTube. 6. Una vez tomado del boletín de la parroquia deberá llevarlo a casa. No habrá Misales en la iglesia por tiempo indefinido. 7. El Ingreso al templo se hará solo por las puertas frontales de la Iglesia en la plaza. Las puertas laterales servirán solo como salidas. 8. Los depósitos de agua bendita seguirán vacíos por seguridad de todos por tiempo indefinido. 9. Para garantizar un distanciamiento social adecuado (6 pies de distancia), siga los señalamientos marcados en el piso entre las bancas. Los miembros de un hogar pueden sentarse juntos a poca distancia de cada uno. 10. Durante la celebración de la Misa, evite tener contacto con otras personas. Por lo mismo, la presentación de las ofrendas, el signo de la paz, quedan suspendidos hasta nuevo aviso. El sostener las manos durante el Padre Nuestro nunca ha sido parte de la liturgia católica y también queda prohibido. 11. La comunión se administrará bajo la especie del pan solamente por tiempo indefinido. 12. Los fieles pueden recibir la comunión en la mano (siguiendo las normas de salud y limpieza) o en la boca, esta no está prohibida. 13. Al término de la Misa se anima encarecidamente que No se reúnan en la plaza ni en ningún otro lugar dentro de las instalaciones parroquiales para dar fácil acceso al siguiente grupo de personas de las misas posteriores. 14. Las áreas comúnmente tocadas en la iglesia serán debidamente desinfectadas al termino de cada celebración. 15. La capilla del Santísimo y el Salón de los niños (cryroom) permanecen cerrados al acceso publico por el momento. 16. El Sacramento de la Reconciliación seguirá en su horario normal, martes 6-7pm y sábado 3:30-4:30pm. O por cita previa. 17. La misa continuará siendo transmitida en vivo por Youtube. 18. Se recomienda encarecidamente a cualquier persona que se encuentre en alto riesgo de salud, que haya estado expuesta al coronavirus o que no se sienta cómoda asistir a una reunión pública que permanezca en casa y participe de la celebración por internet. Salvaguardar la salud de los demás también es un acto de caridad. 19. La obligación de asistir a Misa físicamente sigue dispensada por el Obispo hasta nuevo aviso. 20. Los ministros extraordinarios de comunión, así como el clero que distribuyen la misma, deberán utilizar cubrebocas durante la distribución del sacramento. 21. Mientras preside la misa, el sacerdote no está obligado a cubrirse la boca, ya que el altar está lejos del contacto con los fieles. 22. Solo los clérigos y ministros extraordinarios de la Eucaristía propiamente entrenados están autorizados a distribuir la comunión durante y fuera de la Misa (sus propios familiares en casa solamente) cuando se les es permitido. 23. Durante la distribución de la comunión, el ministro que distribuye tendrá acceso a lavarse y desinfectarse las manos en caso de caer en contacto físico con el comulgante que recibe en la mano o en la boca. 24. Los comunicados oficiales de la parroquia, así como los links propios de las celebraciones, seguirán siendo disponibles a través del sistema de Flocknote y del sitio web parroquial www.ihmbrentwood.com

March 29

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FROM IHM

• All Masses have been cancelled until further notice; however, the church is open from 9am to 4pm for private prayer but the Chapel will be closed. • All baptisms, Quinceaneras, weddings have been cancelled until further notice. • Funerals—no Masses at IHM; however, committal service at the cemetery will be performed by the clergy. • No vigil services will be performed. • RCIA class is cancelled until further notice. • The fish fry has been cancelled. • St. Vincent de Paul will still have food provided with a drive through service only. • The office will be closed until April 7, 2020. • We will be using FLOCKNOTES to inform our parishioners. If you don’t receive them yet, please email crojo@ihmbrentwood.com to be added. • All Penance Services in the deanery have been cancelled. • The Stations of the Cross have been cancelled. • Adoration has been cancelled until further notice. • IHM is working on live stream Mass which will be announced soon. • Anointing of the sick, Viaticum and Absolution only to those in danger of death. All other visits, including visits to the homebound by our ministers, are to be postponed for the time being. To schedule a visit call the office at 925-634-4154 and dial 6 for English and 7 for Spanish.

March 24, 2020

(English) (Mensaje en español abajo) As a community of love in Christ, we encourage you to make proper use of the limited resources available to protect yourself from the corona- virus. For this same reason, we encourage you to share with those in our community who need them the most. There is an increasing need of disposable face masks. Please, if you have extra, donate to our elderly, and the home-bound. You can bring them to the Church and we will properly distribute them. Thank you. May God bless you and reward you for your kindness. Como comunidad de amor en Cristo, los animamos a hacer un uso adecuado de los recursos limitados disponibles para protegerse del coronavirus. Por esta misma razón, les animamos a compartir con aquellos en nuestra comunidad que más los necesitan. Hay una creciente necesidad de máscaras desechables. Por favor, si tienes extra, dona a nuestros ancianos y a los que están recluidos en su hogar. Si gustan, pueden llevarlos a la Iglesia y nosotros los distribuiremos adecuadamente. Gracias. Que Dios los bendiga y los recompense por su bondad.

March 16, 2020

PARA ESPAÑOL, VER MÁS ABAJO In accordance with the most recent memo from the Office of the Bishop (herein attached), celebration of public Masses are suspended within the Diocese, until further notice. Private Masses continue to be celebrated around the world and your intentions are remembered in prayers. We at IHM commit to keep the church doors open for private prayer from 9AM to 4PM; and individual confession as normally scheduled on Tuesdays (6PM) and Saturdays (3:30PM). We are doing our best to set-up live streaming for the weekend Masses. (A link will be sent out through Flocknote, text and email, hence it is imperative that all parishioners sign-up.) For this end, we encourage recitation of the Act of Spiritual Communion (herein attached). As a necessary precaution, your priests will be ready to visit for Anointing of the Sick, Viaticum and Absolution only to those in danger of death. All other visits, including visits to the homebound by our ministers, are to be postponed for the time being. Finally, we highly encourage rescheduling or cancelation of all ministry meetings and events so as to avoid gathering people in number which could expose them to the virus. This is indeed a challenging time, but we need to be vigilant and faithful so we can overcome this trial in our life of faith as a parish community and as a nation, under the mantle of protection of the Blessed Mother. Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us! ***** De acuerdo con el comunicado más reciente de la Oficina del Obispo (aquí adjunta), la celebración de las Misas Públicas se suspende dentro de la Diócesis, hasta nuevo aviso. Las misas privadas siguen celebrándose en todo el mundo y sus intenciones se recuerdan en las oraciones. En IHM nos comprometemos a mantener las puertas de la iglesia abiertas para la oración privada de 9:00am a 4:00pm; y para confesión individual en los horarios ordinarios: Martes 6pm, Sábados 3:30pm. Estamos haciendo todo lo posible para disponer la transmisión en vivo de las Misas de fin de semana a través del internet. (Se enviará un enlace a través de Flocknote, texto y correo electrónico, por lo tanto, es imperativo que todos los feligreses se inscriban.) Con este fin, fomentamos la recitación del Acto de Comunión Espiritual. (Adjunta en enlace). Como precaución necesaria, los sacerdotes estarán listos para dispensar la Unción de los Enfermos, Viatico y Absolución sólo a las personas que estén en extremo peligro de muerte. Todas las demás visitas, incluidas las visitas a los que nuestros ministros acostumbran ordinariamente, se pospondrán por el momento. Por último, fomentamos la cancelación o reprogramación de todas las reuniones y eventos de ministerios para evitar exponerlas al virus. En efecto, este es un momento difícil, pero debemos estar atentos y fieles para poder superar esta prueba en nuestra vida de fe como comunidad parroquial y como nación, bajo el manto de protección de nuestra Santísima Madre María. Inmaculado Corazón de María, ruega por nosotros. Recommendations During Coronavirus Outbreak (UPDATE #5) Act of Spiritual Communion

March 16, 2020

Cognizant of the most recent Order released by the Contra Costa Health Services directing all individuals in the county to "shelter at home", we at IHM church commit to keep our doors open for individual Confessions, celebration of Masses with under 100 people in attendance, and for private time with the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament chapel everyday from 9AM to 4PM. Our clergy and office staff stand ready to assist, particularly during this most challenging time. Request for anointing of the sick or visit to the homebound can be made by calling the Office at 925-634-4154. As the current situation is very fluid, we ask for your patience and understanding. We ask you, too, to share this information to your contact list, particularly to those who might not have access to Flocknote, email or text message. We will send updates as they are made available. Continued prayers for everyone's health and safety. Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us!

March 16, 2020

Please consider signing up for Faith-Direct online-giving to continue helping the church, particularly during this time. With your gift, we can continue with our ministries and services, reaching more people and touching more lives - all in our desire to make present Christ Jesus to all. Visit www.faithdirect.net and use our church code: CA752. Thank you for your continued support.

March 14, 2020

My dear IHM Family, In light of the most recent letters from the Office of the Bishop pertaining to COVID-19, we wish to assure you that our Church will remain open tomorrow and in the days ahead. However, to ensure that we follow the guidelines of the Contra Costa County limiting gatherings to 100 people, instead of the usual Sunday Masses, we will instead have simplified Communion Services tomorrow, March 15: (English) 7:30AM, 9AM, 12:30PM and 5PM; (Spanish) 10:45AM and 2PM. Our liturgy coordinators, communion ministers and ushers will stand ready to assist you as you arrive for the Communion Services, and we request that we all employ reverence and patience as we navigate through this abrupt but necessary change in how we worship as a community. For those who would like to proceed to Adoration, the Blessed Sacrament will be exposed tomorrow for extended hours. Rest assured that the Jesus we receive and adore in the Eucharist is the same Jesus who accompanies us in this most trying time. - Father Quang, Father Erick and Father Arturo Bishop Barber’s Memorandum on: Liturgy During Coronavirus Outbreak (Update 4) Liturgy During Coronavirus Outbreak (Update 3)

March 14, 2020

Dear IHM family, We hope you have had an opportunity to read the Message from the Pastor (COVID-19 Virus). As stated in the previous email, the health and safety of you and the family of IHM, is our highest priority. One of the steps we have taken is to suspend all church social events which involve the serving of food as well as gatherings with more than 50 people until further notice. The exception to this is the Friday Fish Fry , during Lent, which has adapted their distribution of meals to Drive Through and Take Out only. We pray that things will be better in the days ahead, and our life of faith is strengthened as we experience this challenging time. Should you have questions, please call the office. - Father Quang, Father Erick, and Father Arturo

March 14, 2020

PARA ESPAÑOL, VER MÁS ABAJO Dear IHM family, The health and safety of you and the family of IHM, is our highest priority. As the concerns for COVID-19 virus continue to grow, we wanted to share some of the actions that IHM is taking to help protect you and your family. 1. The Masses and Sacraments will continue, however, we encourage you to consider the following when making the choice to participate: • Check with any activities to ensure you are comfortable with the level of accommodations being made to minimize the risk of spreading the virus. • Do not participate if you are in a high-risk. • Do not participate if you feel any symptoms. • Should you choose to participate, follow CDC guide lines: • Avoid close contact with people who are sick • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth (with unwashed hands) • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash (wash hands) • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (such as hand doors or cell phone) • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. 2. In this time of need, we invite all the faithful to pray the Pope's prayer for Healing: + O Mary, you shine always on our way as a sign and hope. We entrust ourselves to you, Health of the Sick, who at the foot of the Cross bound yourself to the suffering of Jesus, keeping strong in your faith. O Salvation of God's people, you know what we need and we are sure you will provide it for us just as in Cana of Galilee the joy and feasting returned after this moment of trial. Mother of Divine Love, help us to conform ourselves to the will of the Father and to do what Jesus tells us, He who took upon Himself our sufferings, and is marked by our sorrows; who led us from the Cross to the joy of the Resurrection. Amen. + Also the intercession of Our Lady of Guadalupe: Holy Virgin of Guadalupe, Queen of Angels, and Mother of the Americas. We fly to you today as your beloved children. We ask you to intercede for us with your Son, as you did at the wedding at Cana. Pray for us, loving Mother, and gain for our nation and the world, and for all our families and loved ones, the protection of your holy Angels, that we may be spared the worst of this illness. For those already afflicted, we ask you to obtain the grace of healing and deliverance. Hear the cries of those who are vulnerable and fearful. Wipe away their tears and help them to trust in your Son. In this time of trial and testing, teach all of us in the Church to love one another and to be patient and kind. Help us to bring the peace of Jesus to our land and to our hearts. We come to you with confidence, knowing that you truly are our compassionate mother, health of the sick, and cause of our joy. Shelter us under the mantle of your protection, keep us in the center of your arms, and help us always to know the love of your Son, Jesus. Amen. Querida familia IHM, La salud y la seguridad de usted y de la familia de IHM, es nuestra máxima prioridad. A medida que las preocupaciones del virus COVID-19 siguen creciendo, queremos compartir algunas de las acciones que IHM está tomando para ayudar a protegerlo a usted y a su familia. 1. Las Misas y Los Sacramentos continuarán celebrándose, sin embargo, le animamos a considerar lo siguiente al tomar la decisión de participar: • Consulte cualquier actividad para asegurarse de que se siente cómodo con el nivel de adaptaciones que se están realizando para minimizar el riesgo de propagación del virus. • No participe si usted está en un alto riesgo de contagio. • No participe si siente algún síntoma. • Si decide participar, siga las líneas guía de los CDC: • Evite el contacto cercano con personas enfermas. • Evite tocarse los ojos, la nariz y la boca con las manos sucias. • Cubra su boca al toser o al estornudar con un pañuelo, luego tire el pañuelo a la basura (lávese las manos). • Limpie y desinfecte objetos y superficies frecuentemente utilizados (como manijas puertas o teléfono celular, etc.) • Lávese las manos a menudo con agua y jabón durante al menos 20 segundos, especialmente después de ir al baño; antes de comer; y después de sonarse la nariz, toser o estornudar. 2. En este momento de necesidad, invitamos a todos los fieles a rezar la oración del Papa por la sanación: + Oh María, que brillas siempre en nuestro camino como señal y esperanza. Nos encomendamos a ti, Salud de los Enfermos, quién al pie de la Cruz unida al sufrimiento de Jesús, mantuviste fuerte en tu fe. Oh Salvación del pueblo de Dios, tu sabes lo que necesitamos y estamos seguros de que nos lo proporcionarás al igual que en Caná de Galilea la alegría festiva regresó después de un momento de prueba. Madre del Amor Divino, ayúdanos, para conformarnos a la voluntad del Padre y hacer lo que Jesús nos dice, El que tomó sobre Sí mismo nuestros sufrimientos, y está marcado por nuestras penas y así nos guía de la Cruz. a la alegría de la Resurrección. Amén. + Intercesión de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe: Santa Virgen de Guadalupe, Reina de los ángeles y Madre de América. Hoy acudimos a ti como tus amados hijos. Te pedimos que intercedas por nosotros ante tu Hijo, como lo hiciste en la boda en Cana. Ora por nosotros, Madre amorosa, y obtén para nuestra nación, nuestro mundo; y para todas nuestras familias y seres queridos, la protección de tus santos ángeles, que podamos ser salvados de esta horrenda enfermedad. Para los ya afligidos, te pedimos que obtengas la gracia de la curación y la liberación. Escucha los clamores de los que son vulnerables y temerosos, limpia sus lágrimas y ayúdales a confiar en tu Hijo. En este tiempo de prueba, enséñanos a todos en la Iglesia a amarnos los unos a los otros y a ser pacientes y amables. Ayúdanos a llevar la paz de Jesús a nuestra tierra y a nuestros corazones. Venimos a ti con confianza, sabiendo que realmente eres nuestra madre compasiva, salud de los enfermos y causa de nuestra alegría. Refúgianos bajo el manto de tu protección, mantennos en el centro de tus brazos, y ayúdanos a conocer siempre el amor de tu Hijo, Jesús. Amen.