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PASTORAL LETTERS

A r c h b i s h o p o f M o n t r e a l

Pastoral Letter

Care for: Body, Heart and Soul

March 13, 2020

Dear People of God in Montreal,

For several months now, we have found ourselves in a state of growing concern and
heightened worry regarding the health of those already infected by the COVID-19 virus. To
face this challenge, we need to maintain solidarity, take proper care of our body, without
forgetting our heart and soul.

Take care of the body by following all personal hygiene measures, especially hand
washing.

Take care of the heart by continuing to acknowledge those whom we meet, in ways
other than by shaking hands. It is important to avoid isolating people; we need to keep in
touch in a visible way or through any of the many communication means available.

Take care of the soul by praying at home, with the family, in small groups, at church.

With regard to parish churches, there are two cancellations for the moment:
Saturday evening and Sunday masses, whose congregations include many people who
travel, and catechesis, which keeps young people and their families moving in the same
direction.

That being the case, it is also recommended that parish churches remain open seven
days a week, and that all other events, and pastoral and liturgical activities, take place
according to the good judgment of the priests and their parish teams.

(cont’d)

Collection of texts by the Most Rev. Christian Lépine 233