Dear Friends in Christ,
Lots of information included in the mailing today. See especially the “Updated Protocols for Offering Masses.” This document is not intended to introduce new changes but to serve as the current version of Archdiocesan policy on offering public Masses during the pandemic. More information below.
Archbishop Sample
Archbishop Sample met with his priests via videoconference Tuesday morning. He will meet with the area vicars next Wednesday. At the meeting with priests, the Archbishop let them know he is resuming his Pastoral Visits to vicariates and regions. He will be in the Albany-Corvallis Vicariate this week. He also reported that the African American Catholic community reached out to him on the issue of racial inequality. The Archbishop intends to meet with representatives to discuss and act on the issue. He encouraged pastors organize groups to study the US Bishops pastoral letter against racism (see resources in “Reminders” section below).
Livestream Schedule
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Fridays at 6 p.m. – “Chapel Chat” LIVE
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Previous Chapel Chats: Eucharist, Evangelization, Protests, Racism
- NOTE: There will be no livestreamed Mass from the Cathedral this Sunday as Archbishop Sample is making a Pastoral Visit to the Albany-Corvallis Vicariate.
Updated Protocols for Offering Masses
The “Plan for Limited Reopening of Masses” was last published in May. Since that time, there have been two significant changes (face mask requirements and limits on numbers for gathering). In addition, there have been a few clarifications by the State and some additional, helpful information on preventing spread of the virus. As a result, the COVID-19 Response Team thought it important to re-issue an updated version of the Plan for Limited Reopening of Masses. We have re-titled it “Protocols for Offering Masses.” The updated document does not introduce new changes that have not already been communicated through this mailing or otherwise. It may be helpful to review as it will serve as our official policy moving forward, and some adjustments have been made. It has been approved by the Archbishop. See UPDATED PROTOCOLS. A Spanish language version will be sent next Tuesday.
New Directory for Catechesis in Spanish
The new Directory for Catechesis is available in Spanish. To order from the USCCB, click HERE.
Don’t Forget – August 31
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Youth Discipleship Zoom Discussion: Trying to figure out confirmation prep and youth ministry? Join us as we seek the Lord in prayer followed by a Zoom discussion on August 31 at 10 AM to learn from each other, collaborate and find a way forward to stay on mission. Link HERE.
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Financial Reports are Due: Financial reports are due on Monday, August 31. Be sure to get them in. Use this Template. Questions? Please contact Steve Poehler at: [email protected] or 503-233-8311.
NEW Update: USDA Food Box Program
The USDA announced Tuesday an additional $1 billion of funding for the Farmers to Families Food Box Program! Our close partner, Pacific Coast Fruit, is among those companies approved to bid for continued participation in the program and Phase III. Unfortunately, next week will see no food box deliveries to our parishes and partners as we await further information about Phase III, which was slated to begin on Sept. 1. We will let you know additional details as soon as we learn them. A big THANK YOU to all the parishes and organizations that have been working so hard to get food boxes into the hands of people in need. We look forward with high hopes to continue participating in this work of mercy.
Building Tips During Closures
Where Did the Last 31 Years Go?
After so many years working at the pastoral Center, Delia Wilson has retired and is looking forward to a more peaceful life with her husband Michael and her family. Delia has spent most of her archdiocesan career in property management and the past year as Director of Risk management and Property management. We are unable to gather to celebrate Delia and her years at the Pastoral Center, but we all wish her well as she embarks on the next phase of her life.
NEW! Seminarian Video
Meet Seminarian Anthony Huangphan who shares words of encouragement on strengthening a relationship with Christ during these challenging times. Anthony Huangphan VIDEO
Previously released videos: Marcus Alvarado VIDEO & Dustin Busse VIDEO
Next Mailing: Tuesday, Sept. 1.
In the peace of Christ,
Todd Cooper
COVID-19 Pastoral Center Response, Core Team Chair
Key Pastoral Resources
REMINDERS
Eliminating Racism
Archbishop Sample encouraged the Catholic community to educate itself, read, study, discuss, and act to eliminate racism. He encourages pastors to organize groups to study the US Bishops Pastoral Letter on racism.
Beirut Recovery Efforts
Support relief efforts in Beirut. See this USCCB MEMO.
Reopening Resources
