As with most parishes, here at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, there are many mass intentions that have been requested to be celebrated on specific dates and Mass times. In light of the current restrictions set in place by Bishop Barnes, wherein the public celebrations of the Eucharist (i.e., Mass), have been temporarily suspended (i.e., cancelled), some have asked about those mass intentions that have already been scheduled.
 
“Will the mass intention I have already requested, be said and when?”
 
A very valid question and concern by the faithful who, in good faith, have requested specific mass intentions for their loved ones or any specific special intention. Please be aware of the following in this regard:

 
Diocesan Response
As you may have read on the website for the Diocese of San Bernardino (sbdiocese.org), Bishop Barnes has suspended all public celebrations of the Mass, effective March 17, 2020, until further notice. This temporary suspension has been made in consultation with the People of God here in our diocese and local government health officials, in light of the health crisis that we are currently encountering: COVID-19 (aka the coronavirus).
 
It should also be noted in the Bishop’s directives, that: “the priests of the Diocese are asked to celebrate and offer daily Mass in private according to liturgical and canonical norms. Mass intentions accepted at the parish are to be offered by priests of the Diocese.”
 
 
The Code of Canon Law
While the Code of Canon Law (hereafter: Code), does not specifically obligate the priest to celebrate (say) the Mass on a daily basis, the grace and call of Holy Orders does obligate the heart and spirit of the priest himself to ensure that Christ is present among and within the people of God – the Church. (cf. Canon 904)
 
While the Code makes it clear that the norm for a priest is to celebrate the Eucharist (Mass), in the presence of (at least some of) the faithful, there may be times when circumstances dictate a modification as to how the celebration will take place, wherein only the priest himself will be present as the Mass is being celebrated. (cf. Canon 906)

 
Canon 904:
Remembering always that in the mystery of the Eucharistic sacrifice the work of redemption is exercised continually, priests are to celebrate frequently; indeed, daily celebration is recommended earnestly since, even if the faithful cannot be present, it is the act of Christ and the Church in which priests fulfill their principal function.
 
 
Canon 906:
Except for a just and reasonable cause, a priest is not to celebrate the Eucharistic sacrifice without the participation of at least some member of the faithful.
 
As priests, we intuitively respond to the call to honor Christ in the Eucharistic celebration, understanding our “obligation” to offer a daily Mass whether “scheduled” in the parish (with the faithful attending), or in private (with only a few, or perhaps none of the faithful in attendance).
 
With regard to those Mass intentions that have already been requested and scheduled here at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, they will be honored on the specific day for which they have been requested (scheduled), during the celebration of the Mass by one of the priests assigned to the parish (e.g., Fr. Romy, Fr. Joseph or Fr. Mike). Please be aware that, given the current restrictions (see above), the faithful will (regretfully), not be allowed to attend these particular celebrations of the Mass.
 
As a primary ministry of the priest, we take seriously the obligation of ensuring that the Eucharistic presence of Christ is effectively present among us each day: in the hearts and lives of the faithful; as the bond that unites us as the one Body of Christ; as the great gift of Christ himself for the hope, strength and healing of the individual and the world.
 
In this time of great trial, we pray for all of you and humbly ask that you also remember us in your prayers. Let us continue our prayer to God, the Father of mercies that the blessing of strength and healing will be with all who are afflicted, whether in body, mind or spirit. May the healing power of God renew us and raise us up each day.
 
Blessings,
Fr. Mike
Fr. Michael Fredericks
Parochial Vicar