Page 238 - spiritual_accompaniment_montreal_archdiocese

PASTORAL LETTERS

FAMILIES and SOCIETY

The family is the basic unit of society and the Church. Drawing upon faith, hope and
love, the stages of life and the gift of grace are highlighted in the celebrations of baptism
and confirmation, weddings and funerals.

During this health-care emergency, it is necessary to postpone these celebrations
until public-health concerns have diminished. These are events that bring many people
together, which in the current state of affairs increases the risk of spreading the disease.
However, should a funeral be held with bodily remains present, rather than cremated, it
might not be possible to postpone the liturgy. The funeral must, therefore, be celebrated
“in camera” (privately, with restricted attendance), with the possibility of celebrating a
memorial mass for the deceased at an appropriate time in the future.

SENIORS

As a society, we are indebted to our senior citizens. Because of underlying health
issues, illness or age — especially for those 70-years-old-plus — they are particularly
vulnerable during this pandemic. As a precautionary measure, they need to stay at home
and refrain from going out, so as to reduce the risk of exposure to the virus. However, it
may lead to a sense of loneliness and isolation.

Is it possible to create prayer networks via phone or online, of ten or more of these
homebound individuals, who share their intentions and offer their days, burdens and
prayers for their family, society, the world and the Church?

I’m asking our many priests, permanent deacons, people of consecrated life, and lay
people, who are 70 years of age and above and who give so much of themselves, to stay at
home. It is a demanding request because you have hearts of gold, but at the same time, we
want you around to share in the life of our parishes and various communities for as long as
possible.

(cont’d)

Collection of texts by the Most Rev. Christian Lépine 238