Orantes The monthly Newsletter of the Office for Divine Worship of the Diocese of Worcester JULY - AUGUST 2021 OFFICE FOR DIVINE WORSHIP With the continued lessening of the pandemic, Bishop McManus 160 Mechanic Street has given permission for the restoration of choirs and the Leominster, MA 01453 exchange of the sign of peace, beginning September 1, 2021. 508-798-0417
[email protected] At the same time, due to the continuing spread of COVID-19, pastors are advised to postpone the restoration of the distribution Monsignor James P. Moroney of Holy Communion under both kinds and to keep in mind the Director continuing presence of the COVID-19 variants and the Reverend Alfredo Porras vulnerability of un-vaccinated individuals. Various precautions Associate Director which might be employed as these liturgical practices are restored are described in the pages of the double-issue of Elizabeth Marcil Associate Director Orantes. Deacon Colin Novick While Bishop McManus and his brother Bishops continue to Assistant Director explore the implications of the Apostolic Traditionis Custodaes, we offer some context for understanding the Holy Father’s latest Restoring Choirs. 2 motu proprio. Finally, the newly expanded Litany of Saint Restoring Sign of Peace. 5 Joseph is included in this issue, along with reflections on the Traditionis custodes 10 Litany of Saint Joseph. 12 seven titles inserted by Pope Francis earlier this year. 1 Restoring Choirs With this issue of Orantes, Bishop McManus has announced that choirs may resume their ministry at parish Masses. At the same time, pastors and Directors of Sacred Music should consider instituting or maintaining certain practices to assure the health and safety of all.