By Max Bowen-max.bowen@northstarreporter.com
After learning that a member of the Transfiguration of the Lord Parish staff had come into contact with someone who had tested positive for the COVID-19 virus, the entire staff has been placed under quarantine.
In a letter posted to the parish web site on March 16, Reverend Rodney Eric Thibault wrote that since this decision was made, none of the staff—including the one who came into contact with the individual who had tested positive—have shown any symptoms whatsoever. The staff member came into contact with this person on March 9 and came into work the following day. The parish office will remain closed until March 24.
“In advance, I would like to apologize for any and all inconveniences this will undoubtedly cause,” wrote Rev. Thibault. “Since both Father Jack Schrader and I are quarantined, we will be unable to celebrate Sunday Masses the weekend of March 21/22.”
A daily Mass livestream is planned and more information can be found on the parish’s Facebook page.
In addition, Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha has suspended the celebration of Masses and other liturgical services in the Diocese of Fall River effective Tuesday, March 17, and continuing until further notice. This includes Masses of First Holy Communion and Confirmation. A dispensation has been issued from the obligation to attend Mass during this time to all Catholics of the Diocese.
Exceptions are granted for the celebration of weddings and funerals, but attendance must be limited to immediate family members only, not to exceed 10 persons. Every effort must be made to follow precautions already announced in previous communications from the Diocese along with recommendations of public health officials.
