In an interview with the Italian daily newspaper, “La Repubblica”, Pope Francis says he is praying for an end to the coronavirus pandemic, and asks everyone to be close to those who have lost loved ones.

Following the more recent letter from the Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Quebec (March 15) addressing preventive measures concerning COVID-19, here is the latest pastoral letter from Archbishop Lépine and a memorandum providing a summary of "Diocesan Directives" to date.

The Premier of Quebec has ordered the closure of all public gathering places. Given the extent of the danger, the urgency of the situation, and the solidarity required under such circumstances, the Executive of the Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Quebec is recommending, effective today, the suspension of all celebrations and public activities in the churches of Quebec.

Archbishop Lépine issues a pastoral letter outlining guidelines amid COVID-19 concerns.

Following the Quebec Assembly of Catholic Bishops’ announcement to cancel all Sunday Masses and in order to help the faithful participate more fully in their Sunday prayer, Archbishop Christian Lépine of Montreal will take the opportunity to offer a Mass in solidarity with the faithful at St. Joseph’s Oratory. This Sunday Mass will be broadcast live as a closed session from the crypt.