Public Access to Priory Liturgies Suspended

On Thursday, March 12, the archbishop of Washington issued a decree suspending until further notice “Masses open to the public in all archdiocesan parishes.” The aim of the archbishop’s decision, of course, is to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the area. Given the continued threat of infection, the suspension of public Masses is painful but prudent.

In keeping with the archbishop’s decree, the priory is suspending public access to its conventual liturgies beginning on Saturday, March 14. Our liturgies will become public again once the archbishop lifts his decree.

Lack of access to the priory’s liturgies, including Mass and the Divine Office, will cause hardship for many of the community’s friends. We friars will endure this sacrifice with you; your presence in the chapel will be missed. But know that as the community maintains its regular schedule of prayer, your intentions will be remembered. United in praise and petition, seeking the Lord’s mercy for the sick and vulnerable, we look forward to the passing of the present threat. Soon, in God’s good time, we shall join together again in common prayer.

May the Lord keep you all safe and healthy.

Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us! Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us! St. Dominic, pray for us!