St. Alphonsa Syro-Malabar Church : COVID-19 Response Updates

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ:
Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan issued an order Monday for nonessential businesses to close Monday evening in a more aggressive attempt to quash the coronavirus pandemic. Governor Hogan’s executive order requires closing all nonessential businesses, organizations and establishments in Maryland effective 5 p.m. Monday, March 23, 2020. The order closes all those businesses that are not covered by the federal guidelines defining “critical infrastructure sectors”, and as such our Church building will be closed to everyone effective today.

Previously, I indicated flexibility in receiving Holy Communion by coming to church. Based on the Executive Order, effective today, no one will be permitted into the church premises and I will not be distributing Holy Communion to anyone.

During this time of uncertainty and anxiety, I pray that you and your loved ones are safe and healthy. This crisis challenges us to act responsibly by following the social isolation guidelines while striving to stay close emotionally and spiritually to our families, our friends, and our communities. Please join me in praying for those affected by COVID-19, as well as our first responders, health care workers, and individuals who have lost income due to precautionary closures.

I will be celebrating Holy Qurbana daily privately and that Holy Qurbana will be live streamed for you based on the weekly schedule. You may access the live stream at: http://stalphonsachurch.org/live/   

Please continue to pray for each other, as I continue to pray for you.
Wilson Achan