UPDATE: MARCH 25, 2020
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Based on Governor Whitmer’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive order of March 23, 2020, we have made some changes to our original mandate regarding funeral services:
Funeral Masses are suspended during this time. Graveside (cemetery) burials are still permitted and strongly suggested, provided that proper social distancing is observed.
Funeral prayers within the church are permitted but not recommended at this time. If a family wishes to conduct funeral prayers in the church, they must contact their local funeral director, who will coordinate with their parish. During funeral prayers, the following rules must be observed:
- No more than ten people total may gather in the church (1 Funeral Director + 1 Priest + up to 8 family members)
- Prayers may be streamed or shared live (in a respectful manner) with the pastor and family’s permission. Each family must provide their own streaming service
If local law enforcement will not allow funeral services, then this will supersede all of our diocesan mandates.
As we assure you our fatherly love and care in these very hard times, we appreciate your understanding as we try and work with our local and federal governments, and their mandates, while still trying to remain faithful to God during these challenging times.
May God bless you and keep you, may his face continue to shine upon you,
Most Rev. Francis Y. Kalabat
Bishop of St. Thomas the Apostle
Chaldean Catholic Diocese U.S.A.