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Spiritual Resources
What is a Dispensation from Mass?
A dispensation from the diocesan Bishop releases Catholics from fulfilling their Sunday obligation (Mass). Since public Masses are cancelled in the Diocese of Buffalo until further notice, this means that if you live in the Diocese of Buffalo, the right thing to do is to stay home for your safety and the safety of others. Though there is a sadness for not being able to participate at Mass, one should not feel guilty for not going to Mass. You have a free conscience to stay home.
What is Spiritual Communion?
A way to be united with Christ when we cannot physically receive the Body and Blood of Christ in the Eucharist. It can be made at home or in church, in front of the Blessed Sacrament or not. St. Thomas Aquinas described Spiritual Communion as “an ardent desire to receive Jesus in the Holy Sacrament and a loving embrace as though we had already received Him.” Catholics are also encouraged to watch Mass online, resources can be found on our live stream page.
Gather together with others in your household and begin a time of prayer with the sign of the cross.
Take time to read and reflect upon the readings from Sunday Mass. (Readings can be accessed on USCCB)
Create your own prayer or use a traditional prayer to express to the Lord intentions quietly or aloud.
Pray the Lord’s Prayer.
Pray an act of spiritual communion.
Close with the sign of the cross.
Additional Links:
How to Remain Spiritual engaged in your own Home, FORMED.org, Stream Catholic movies, programs, audio and books (Please contact your parish for access or enjoy a free trial for 7 days)
For Your Marriage with a Variety of Other Resources
Living with Christ is offering free prayer resources and downloads of the daily Mass texts
The WORD among us is providing complimentary access to the daily Mass readings and our entire website to help people pray from home.
Three Minute Retreat from Loyola Press
Give Us This Day, free daily Mass readings, Liturgy of the Word and more.
