What the Circular Letter refers to as Mass without a congregation refers to the form “Mass at which only one minister participates” (GIRM 252-272). Kindly refer to the indications found in GIRM; it is practically the same form as the “Mass with the people (a congregation)” minus the homily but with only the priest and a minister who acts as lector and server. Considering our current situation, the minister should be somebody who lives in the rectory (not somebody who lives outside) so that there would be fewer chances of spreading the virus.
For parishes who share their masses either on-air (using loudspeakers on church belfries), or broadcast over the radio or via live-streaming, it is recommended that a homily should be given for the people who although are not physically present is one in prayer in their homes or wherever they are.
The Mass in our parishes especially if shared via live-streaming is better celebrated in the very sanctuary of the parish church or, if there is a difficulty, in a sacred place (a consecrated chapel) and not just in any makeshift and improvised altar and chapel.
Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament inside the Church requires that there is at least one person who is in adoration before the Blessed Sacrament. Otherwise, the Blessed Sacrament should be kept inside the tabernacle.
Processions of the Blessed Sacrament (or image of the Patron Saint) during these times may be done provided that all observe Social Distancing and will not attract groups to crowd around them.
The Holy Week Services (Palm Sunday and the Easter Triduum) will still be held in our parishes but again using the form “Mass at which only one minister participates.” The ceremonies will be done with the bare essentials only. Separate Guidelines will be given later.
EXTRAORDINARY TIMES REQUIRE EXTRAORDINARY ACTIONS. These are the times when the word PASTORAL REASON becomes operative.
