Pastoral Centre, Kingston
March 17, 2020

My dear Priests, Deacons, Religious and Faithful,

The civil authorities in Ontario have announced that the Province is under a state of emergency effective immediately. Accordingly, all Sunday Masses, weekday Masses and public church events will be cancelled until further notice. Pastors and Administrators are to celebrate Sunday Mass privately in keeping with CIC canon 534 (Missa pro populo).

Public funerals are cancelled. A private funeral service can be arranged with the immediate family and funeral director. Baptisms may take place in the presence of a priest or deacon, the parents and godparents.

Weddings, if they take place, are to be in the presence of a priest or deacon and two witnesses.

The Chancery Office will be closed to all but emergency services. Parish Offices could follow the same procedure. It is with great regret that I announce these measures, but they are necessary to minimize loss of life, especially among those most vulnerable to the virus. I would ask that you consult the Archdiocesan/Diocesan website for further developments and clarifications.

Please continue to pray for those affected by COVID-19, and for those who find isolation a source of great hardship.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

†Michael Mulhall
Archbishop of Kingston
Apostolic Administrator of Pembroke