Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Mexican City (Agenzia Fides) – Once again, the bells of Mexico City parishes have not been calling the faithful to Mass, as Cardinal Norberto Rivera Carrera has declared “with obligatory character” the cancellation of Masses throughout the Archdiocese, due to the health emergency declared in the city April 24 asking that all large events or activities with considerable attendants be avoided. The Archbishop of Mexico City, along with his Auxiliary Bishops, decided to once again cancel Masses on Sunday in the parishes, rectories, and chapels in the Archdiocese to avoid the spread of the flu.
In a statement issued on April 30, the Cardinal recalled that precisely while the Catholic Church celebrates the Easter joy of the Lord's Resurrection, “as Mexicans we are facing one of the hardest sufferings in recent times, as a result of the health alert for the 'flu' that has become a serious threat to the lives of people in our nation and in other countries.” Unfortunately, in spite of the great efforts being made by local and federal authorities, “the spread of the virus has caused a rise in health risks determined by the World Health Organization.” However, the Prelate says, “the number of victims has not multiplied in great numbers, and this gives us hope.”
In his message, he makes a new appeal to society, reminding them of their moral obligation to “heed and obey recommendations from health authorities.”
He also made a call to the priests of the diocese, asking that they “kindly look after the sick, being available for Confession, Last Rites, and Holy Communion, and that they console and comfort families, being bearers of hope, promoting constant trusting prayer, praying intensely for the health of the people, encouraging parish charity services, and that they also follow the indications issued by the Archdiocese of Mexico City.
As the World Health Organization has declared the epidemic to be in its 5th stage, and in responsible solidarity with our authorities, the Archbishop of Mexico once more regrets to have to call for the “cancellation of all Masses in the city's parishes, for this fourth Sunday of Easter, Good Shepherd Sunday, with obligatory character,” rendering all faithful exempt of the Sunday precept.
Cardinal Rivera clarified in the closed-door celebration of the Mass in the city's Cathedral, that the Mass cancellations are “simply our attempt of preventing the gathering of crowds, to prevent contamination.” He also added that the Churches will remain open “so that the faithful can go to pray on a personal basis or as a family,” however avoiding any large gatherings inside. He also mentioned that “although we are hearing news of stability on the health crisis...we should remain on the alert.”
Near the altar, in the Mass held in the Cathedral, an image of “Our Lord of Health” was placed. The image had not come out of its location in a side chapel since 1691 and it was to this image that Mexico City was entrusted during the flood and plague that had afflicted the city. The health of the Mexican people was entrusted to Our Lord of Health this past April 26. (RG) (Agenzia Fides 4/5/2009)
