03/18/2020
Important Message from The SMA Fathers - Tenafly
March 18, 2020
Our need for God must be the most important aspect in our life. Now is the time to deepen our relationship with the One and Only True God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
In light of the new directives for by the Archdiocese of Newark. Which updated yesterday has suspended all public celebrations of the Holy Mass, we too would like to update you on what his eminence Joseph Cardinal Tobin, CsSR. has permitted and encouraged:
Unlocked Chapel Doors
ST. Anthony of Padua Chapel, SMA Fathers – “The Mission”, will remain open every day or personal prayer (7am-6pm) to allow healthy individuals to privately pray before Christ in the Tabernacle. Eucharistic Exposition will continue every day for people to focus on God and to seek God’s Peace, during days of turmoil. We have been blessed to have this gift provided for you! Our outdoor shrine to Our Lady will also remain accessible to all faithful. The Cardinal encourages Churches to remain open for people to pray.
Jesus’ Eucharist presence in the tabernacle and during times of Adoration is a sign that He silently and loving waits for us and is always ready to receive and console us. May our prayers in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament be a source of strength and peace until we can safely resume the celebration of Mass for all members of the Catholic community, our SMA family and in our Archdiocese. More than ever, the need to appeal to God during this difficult time is essential to those who prioritize their faith as the most essential aspect in their life.
Mass Suspension
For at least the next 14 days, the Cardinal has suspended all Sunday and Daily Masses in the Archdiocese of Newark The suspension of scheduled Masses is temporary, and their resumption will begin as soon as possible, and as determined by the Cardinal. In the Cardinal’s same statement, he permits celebration of funerals, marriages, Confirmation, and Baptisms, based on the sacramental needs of the people. It is asked that such attendance be limited to immediate family, wherever possible.
Further, the sacraments of the Anointing of the Sick and Reconciliation will remain available, as needed, by the faithful. We are encouraged as Catholics to participate in the daily and Sunday Masses broadcast. Viewers can watch these Masses on demand at any time. Other religious programs are also provided by EWTN.com.
Our Assurance
Along with Father Ranees (Anbu) our Provincial and the fathers here at “The Mission”, I assure you of our prayers and Masses for the needs of the SMA family, your local parishes and the world throughout these difficult times. Kindly keep us in your prayers.
I invoke the intercession of Our Lady, Comforter of the Afflicted, St. Joseph, her beloved spouse and the terror of the demons, St. Michael the Archangel, St. Raphael the healer, St. Charles Borromeo patron of the sick, St. Padre Pio, and all other Saints who have been examples of fortitude during times of challenge. May the Precious Blood of Jesus Christ bless you and the mantle of the Blessed Mother be wrapped around you and your loved ones, and all, especially the sick, and their caretakers.
May God show His mercy to us.
Sincerely in Christ,
Father Dermot S. Roache, SMA
Local Superior
