Bishop Malooly has suspended all public Masses and all liturgical and devotional services

After prayerful consideration and consultation with his senior staff, the deans, medical and government officials, Bishop Malooly has suspended all public Masses and all liturgical and devotional services in the Diocese of Wilmington until further notice, effective immediately.  This effort is designed to help safeguard the public and prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Earlier in the week, Bishop Malooly had already dispensed all Catholics in the Diocese of Wilmington from the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays.

Though saddened to have had to make this decision, he said “we must put the health and well-being of our parishioners and others first. It is important that we continue to remind our people to be safe and to follow all directives from our governmental agencies. This is not a time to panic, but we need to take this very seriously. I invite the faithful to stay connected to their parish community electronically, and to participate in Mass via television and the Internet, during this challenging time.”

All Masses (weekday and weekend) and all liturgical and devotional services have been suspended until further notice. The priests of the parishes will continue to celebrate Masses in private, fulfilling all Mass intentions. While unable to attend Mass, the laudable practice of spiritual communions can be employed.

We are looking into ways in which to livestream these Masses so that you can spiritually join in these Holy Masses. We are also looking at opportunities to have the churches open for individual prayer.

Please continue to check this page for more information. The diocesan Office of Communication has also set up a website – cdow.org/coronavirus – with information including a viewable Sunday Mass recorded at the Cathedral of Saint Peter. 

Let us continue to pray…

For those infected with coronavirus, that they may receive prompt, effective and compassionate medical care.

For all medical professionals who are courageously treating those infected. May they be shielded, strengthened and guided as they administer healing treatments and care. 

For all who are suffering from the coronavirus, as well as for doctors, nurses, caregivers, and all those who are working to combat the disease.

For those most vulnerable to this disease, the elderly, the poor, the homeless and those disabled or weakened by other health conditions.

For those under quarantine, that they might be comforted by your presence and protected from disease, anxiety and fear.   

For our public healthcare leaders and government agencies that they might be informed and well prepared as they deal with this pandemic. Grant them the resources and assistance they need to use their wisdom in the best interest of public health.

For medical researchers who are tracking the course of the coronavirus. May they uncover patterns that will help us understand how to remain healthy. 

For those searching for treatments, cures and vaccines.

For the communities, areas and countries hardest hit by coronavirus, that their sense of wellbeing and community may be restored.

For all whose lives are disrupted by the coronavirus; for families who have been separated by quarantine or whose livelihoods have been jeopardized.    

For a quick end to the progression of COVID-19, that lives might be spared.

Please be assured of my prayers for all in our parishes.

Father McQuaide

Rector–Pastor

U P D A T E  - 

Prayer During an Epidemic - Our Sunday Visitor

Lord Jesus,

Hear our pleas, our good shepherd and divine physician. We implore your mercy in the wake of an outbreak of serious illness and disease. 

Guide our efforts to prevent contagion and make preparations to care for those most vulnerable. Assist all professionals and volunteers who work to eradicate the epidemic now spreading. May our actions be marked by your steadfast love and selfless service and never by panic or fear.

Bestow your comfort and healing to the sick, sustain and strengthen them by your grace. May they know your closeness as they carry the cross of illness. 

And may all you have called from this life come to worship you eternally with all the saints as you grant consolation and peace to their mourners. Amen.

Holy Mary, Health of the Sick, pray for us.

St. Joseph, Hope of the Sick, pray for us.

St. Rocco, protector against epidemics, pray for us.