From the Addendum (March 31, 2020):
- The Decree issued on March 25, 2020 from the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments indicates that “The Commemoration of the Lord’s Entrance into Jerusalem is to be celebrated within sacred buildings; in Cathedral churches the second form given in the Roman Missal is to be adopted; in parish churches and in other places the third form is to be used.” (cf. In time of Covid-19 (II))
- Nevertheless, if the Priest wishes to use the second form, he may do so. However, out of caution for the health of all, he must not distribute the palms nor leave them out for the Faithful to pick up. The blessed palms are to be kept in the parish until further notice.
From the Liturgical Guidelines (March 24, 2020):
- In parish churches, the priest(s) of the parish may celebrate the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper. The faculty to celebrate Mass on this day in a suitable place, without the people, has been granted in an exceptional manner to all priests. The washing of the feet is to be omitted. At the end of the Mass, the procession with the Blessed Sacrament to the place of repose is to be omitted and the Blessed Sacrament is to be kept in the Tabernacle. Priests who are unable to celebrate Mass should instead pray Vespers of the day. (cf. Decree, In time of Covid-19, Prot. N. 153/20)
- On Good Friday, for the Adoration of the Holy Cross, if more than one person is assisting, to express reverence to the Cross without kissing or touching it, a genuflection or profound bow would be appropriate (cf. Memorandum, Observance of Holy Week 2020, USCCB). Furthermore, in the Solemn Intercessions, please note the special intention to be added (see liturgical guidelines for the text).
- For the Easter Vigil, “The Solemn Beginning of the Vigil or Lucenarium” the preparation and lighting of the fire is omitted, the Paschal candle is lit, the procession is omitted and the Easter Proclamation (Exsultet) follows. The “Liturgy of the Word” then takes place. For the “Baptismal Liturgy,” the “Renewal of Baptismal Promises” alone is necessary (cf. Missale Romanum pag. 371, n. 55). The baptisms which customarily take place at the Easter Vigil are to be postponed in accordance with the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (n. 26). The Elect should participate in at least one Scrutiny, which can take place at Mass or in a Liturgy of the Word, before being baptized. The “Liturgy of the Eucharist” follows the “Renewal of Baptismal Promises.” (cf. Decree, In time of Covid-19, Prot. N. 153/20)
Thank you for your continued service and ministry in these trying times. May God continue to bless you in your ministry and the parish communities you serve.