Dear Cathedral Parishioners,
I hope this message finds you well. Here is today’s update:
1. The Cathedral received many positive messages from those who watched the livestreamed Mass on Sunday. Thank you for joining in spiritual communion during that time.
2. About 100 people visited the Cathedral over the weekend. We have been able to provide a refuge of prayer before the Eucharistic Lord, as well as ample opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Penance.
3. I celebrated Mass privately today. Here is a link to the readings: http://usccb.org/bible/readings/032420.cfm. A brief homily is attached.
Please know that I am offering Mass each day for the intention that has been scheduled. Because now there is only one Mass on Sunday, and because, according to Church law, at least one Sunday Mass must be for the people (Latin: pro populo), intentions originally scheduled for the weekend will be rescheduled.
4. Bishop Knestout tested negative for the coronavirus (Covid-19), which is a relief. Please continue to pray for those who have been infected, for the medical personnel who are battling the pestilence, and for an end to the contagion.
5. Pope Francis has invited Christians throughout the world to join him in praying the Our Father tomorrow, Wednesday, which is the feast of the Annunciation, at 12:00 N.
The Holy Father also announced that he will impart a special Urbi et Orbi blessing (literally, “to the city [Rome] and to world”) on Friday, March 27 at 1:00 p.m. EST (6:00 p.m. Roman time.) Normally, the Urbi et Orbi blessing is given only on Christmas and Easter.
6. I would like to thank all of who have donated to the parish, especially those who have used online giving. We have 362 online donors to date (29 percent of parishioners). Online giving is especially helpful because it ensures that we have enough cash in the bank to pay our bills. We’re in a difficult time, as many parishioners are. I have stopped all discretionary spending to ease the situation, but we have ongoing costs. If you can give, please do, and do so online. If you can’t give, please don’t. Information about online giving appears at the bottom of this message.
Please continue to take the necessary safety precautions, and stay close to God.
Sincerely in Christ,
Father Tony Marques
The Cathedral's Extended Hours for
Individual Prayer
Monday through Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Saturday: 3:00–6:00 p.m.
Sunday: 12:00 N – 6:00 p.m.
Hours for Confession
(Penance or Reconciliation)
Wednesday: 5:00–6:00 p.m.
Friday: 5:00–6:00 p.m.
Saturday: 4:00–6:00 p.m.
Sunday: 12:00 N – 2:00 p.m.
Giving
Many people have asked how they can continue to financially support the Cathedral parish while public Masses are suspended. As you may know, the Cathedral operating budget is 100% dependent on Offertory contributions throughout the year. About 18% of our donations come through electronic giving. The balance of the giving comes through the regular Sunday collection (82%). With the suspension of public Masses, we will lose about half of our income.
It is also true that during this crisis, many people will suffer financial hardship through the temporary loss of employment, a reduction in investment-based retirement income, or the need to support other family members. Keeping in mind both of these realities, we ask that you consider the following, remembering that no one is expected to financially endanger themselves or their family:
Please continue to support the Cathedral parish through your donations:
- Mail in your usual donation amount by check to 823 Cathedral Place, Richmond, VA 23220
- Use Vanco, our online giving platform (Click Here). You can set up one-time or recurring donations using your bank account or credit card. If you previously have not set up your account in Vanco, you can do so easily. Remember, you have total control over your giving using Vanco.
- You can text the amount you wish to donate to (804) 315-0903.
At this time, the Cathedral parish has suspended all discretionary spending. We are focused on carefully stewarding the donations of our parishioners so that the essential work of the Church can continue. We will be here throughout this time of crisis. We are here for you! Please help us maintain that presence as you are able.
You are in our prayers; please keep us in yours.