- Closure of Church for ALL Masses
The Government of Ontario announced that the Regional Municipality of York will move to the GREY-Lockdown Zone starting December 14, 2020 at 12:01 AM.
Lockdown restrictions necessitate:
- Closure of Parish Office
Dear Parishioners,
We want to thank all the parishioners of St. Patrick’s Parish for their ongoing support during this period of great uncertainty. It has been wonderful to see so many of you at Mass since we re-opened in June. We are especially grateful to the volunteers and parish staff who have helped ensure our church is a safe place to gather – they have done incredible work!
As you know, the number of new COVID-19 cases in the Greater Toronto Area have increased significantly in recent days. Premier Ford announced on December 11, 2020 special emergency measures that need to be taken in York region.
For this reason, as of Monday, December 14th, we must restrict attendance inside the church to 10 people. Sadly, due to these measures, public Masses must be temporarily cancelled. Priests will continue to celebrate private Mass daily for the intentions of parishioners and for those suffering from COVID-19.
Our church will remain open for private prayer Monday through Saturday from 9:15 am to 10:15 am. The faithful can receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation by calling or emailing the parish office to make arrangements.
While we recognize it is not a substitute for attending Mass in person, Fr. Dominic and Fr. Jihwan want to encourage you to view our livestreamed daily and weekend masses at www.stpatrick.on.ca. Starting next weekend, the 4th Sunday of Advent, our Livestream mass will be available Sundays at 9:00 am.
For a summary of what is available during these new restrictions, please click here.
We recognize these measures are extremely challenging. We are also so incredibly grateful for the efforts of our heroic volunteers and parish staff who have been faithfully welcoming parishioners and cleaning the church between services, ensuring that we can operate safely and responsibly. Your selflessness and generosity is inspiring!
So many of the faithful rely on the reception of the sacraments and our churches to find solace, peace and support during this period of pandemic. Despite these new restrictions, we will make every effort to continue our outreach to you. We also ask that you find opportunities to assist those who are vulnerable or alone among us.
We will continue to update you as the situation evolves. The most up-to-date information will be shared on the parish Website, Facebook and Instagram.
Together, let us faithfully practice the three Ws: Wash, Wait, and Wear
We pray that you and your loved ones remain safe and healthy. May God continue to bless you now and always!
Fr. Dominic Barber
Pastor, St. Patrick's Parish Markham
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