Phase One          

May 15, 2020

Dear Friends and Family of the Basilica,

It is difficult to believe that we are getting ready to celebrate the Sixth Sunday of Easter. We are almost at Pentecost! Where did the time go? Time and space has seemed to have been redefined by this current state of affairs. We have also celebrated Seven Sundays in quarantine and my heart aches for you.

Governor Northam has initiated a phased opening of the Commonwealth which includes a loosening of restriction on places of worship. There have been several long meetings surrounding the details of entering phase one including a three-and-a-half-hour Zoom meeting with the Diocese. Bishop Knestout has been a great resource for everyone in this sometimes confusing time. He and his team have put together a manual for reopening the churches. The manual is detailed, prudent and authoritative. Although the governor has initiative phase one today, in the Diocese of Richmond public Mass will be celebrated no earlier than May 23, the Feast of the Ascension, in order for us to be prepared with the appropriate spacing, protective equipment and cleaning supplies.

While the announcement of Phase One is hopeful, it is also troubling. We know that there is a disproportionate burden of death and illness as a result of COVID-19 among racial minorities. When the determination to reopen is considered, the metrics and statistics that are used are very general and do not consider the unique and dire needs of communities of color. Therefore, we must proceed with the utmost of caution.

Phase One allows for us to celebrate our Masses at 50% capacity. Our seating capacity according to the official, posted document is 333. However, when we allow for social distancing, the capacity for us worshipping in our space is 79.

The Worship Committee is meeting tonight to establish a more detailed and personalized plan for the Basilica to enter phase one. This will include how to determine who those 79 people will be and how many Masses will be celebrated. When we have developed the plan, it will be submitted to Parish Council for review and approval, then sent to Richmond.

The Bishop’s expectation is that we begin Phase One celebration of Masses next week. However, this is not a mandate. I have heard from many people in parish leadership that it is too soon. Given the unique burden on the African American Community and the greater risk involved, we should wait. I do not disagree with those voices of caution. The final determination will be made after we have all reviewed and approved the plan. Regardless of the decision we make, I strongly implore you to remain home if you are a person with increased vulnerability and to continue the safety regimen to which we have all become accustomed.

It would be very helpful to be able to hear your thoughts and concerns. To that end, we have created a brief survey. This is not a vote. It is not a matter of majority rule; it is a sincere desire to listen to your concerns. Please take a moment to respond.

I am eager to worship and pray and hug and chat with you again. I am also anxious about doing what is right and responding faithfully to your needs. Your comments and suggestions will help in determining that.

Below is the link for survey monkey. I look forward to hearing from you and please know that I love you and your safety remain my first priority.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/9C3Y3BM

In His Name,

Fr. Jim Curran

Basilica of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception |

1000 Holt Street, 1000 Holt Street, Norfolk, VA 23504

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