April 2020
All public celebrations of the Liturgy, as well as Liturgy of the Hours, Stations of the Cross, and all other group services, Bible studies and parish related activities are suspended until further notice. This includes Palm Sunday, Holy Week, and all Easter Services. The dispensation offered for all Catholics in our Archdiocese from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass is now extended through April.
Where possible, A live stream of Mass can be accomplished by broadcasting the Mass with a smartphone or tablet/computer and televised (T.V.) options are available through our Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, there are other offerings through local parishes available. Local, and/or any St. Louis Archdiocesen Parish are preferred for our parish communities. A schedule of these live-stream times of those Masses and how to view them may be found on the link located on our parish "Home" page. Many may also be viewed at alternative times or downloaded.
The suspension of all public Masses, the limiting of people being gathered, and the serious
requirement of social distancing (a distance of 6 feet) are all attempts for us to help reduce the
curve in the number of new COVID-19 cases.
Since this is an issue of prudence and charity in our Archdiocese, for both the health and wellbeing of both our people and our priests.
SPIRITUAL COMMUNION
Receiving the Blessed Sacrament in the Eucharist is the source and summit of our Catholic faith, but during these unprecedented times and to ensure the health and safety of all people, it is not possible to receive the Sacrament during this time. However, there are still opportunities to draw close to Christ and unite with the Church during these difficult times.
“The Church obliges the faithful "to take part in the Divine Liturgy on Sundays and feast days"
and, prepared by the sacrament of Reconciliation, to receive the Eucharist at least once a year, if
possible during the Easter season.”
-Catechism of the Catholic Church §1389
While we are unable to receive the Blessed Sacrament during the next several weeks, we can
take the opportunity to participate in Mass online, reflect on scripture, and engage in further
spiritual reading. One excellent way to receive the blessings bestowed upon us is through a
Spiritual Communion. Below is a copy of the prayer that can be used or distributed amongst the
faithful.
Prayer of Spiritual Communion
Jesus, present in the Blessed Sacrament, I love you with all my heart. I ask my guardian to retrieve the Eucharist from the Tabernacle, so I may receive Jesus spiritually. FILL MY MIND AND HEART with full Eucharistic graces.
Bulletins for St. James and St. Mary's are available anytime in the Adoration Chapel at St Mary's. Holy, Blessed Palms are available now in the Chapel so that you may have them with you for Chapel at St Mary's. For the access code to the Chapel, please call the parish office at 636-451-4685 during regular office hours, or by contacting Deacon Brian Knight by email, text or phone, please include your name/parish/and contact info to: 314-520-6263 or
Holy Water, Holy Salt for home blessing, Rosary's, Prayer Cards, etc. are also available in the Chapel, free for the taking. Please make use of these materials and this Holy space. Please, due to the size and space of our Adoration Chapel, please adhere to a strict limit of two (2) worshipers inside at any one given time.