St. Patrick’s Church to reopen for Vigil of Pentecost

May 22, 2020

St. Patrick’s Church in Wareham is preparing to reopen for the Vigil of Pentecost on Saturday May 30, but there will be several precautions in place to keep everyone safe from the coronavirus. 

Pastor Antonio da Silva said that after months of being closed due to the coronavirus, the church would reopen for the vigil at 4 p.m. on May 30, and hopefully for other events in the future as well.

In a letter to parishioners shared on the church’s Facebook page, da Silva wrote that “We need to keep in mind, however, the recommendations of health experts in keeping physical distancing and following all safety precautions. Therefore, the church will be reopening at 40% of occupancy capacity. All family members may sit together, and all others should respect the physical space of 6 feet. When coming to church, do not be surprised of the new arrangements.

We ask those who are at risk to stay home. The dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass remains in effect until further notice.” 

da Silva said that the church is asking parishioners to be accommodating and charitable to one another during this challenging time, and that as a community “we will overcome this crisis.”

He added that “our faith is strengthened knowing that we have fulfilled our love of self and neighbor by following the guidelines recommended by the medical experts.”