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Bishop McKnight extends pandemic protocols to 11/27/2020

Updated instructions regarding the pastoral practices in time of pandemic

Bishop McKnight has issued a decree to go into effect on September 12. The decree extends the dispensation from attending Sunday Mass in person until November 27, 2020. The Bishop does caution all the faithful that a dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass does not remove the obligation to keep the Sabbath holy in a fitting manner, either by watching the live stream of the parish Mass or Mass from another church, or spending time in prayer and reflection on the liturgical texts of the day. All parishes are required to follow the health and hygiene directives of public health officials for the common good, and the practices that have been required of us for preventing the spread of the virus will continue to be in force. One particular change from the previous decrees is that Bishop McKnight is requiring the use of masks in church and in church facilities. Previously this has been simply a strong recommendation. We will continue our practices of mask use, except when seated in the pew, and social distancing. Please read the full decree at the Diocesan website.

Thank you to the parish staff, commission leadership, and all the volunteers for helping us manage our worship and pastoral activities during this time of crisis. Your patience and fortitude is exemplary. And thank you to all the parishioners and visitors who have been so faithful during these past months. I know God is looking down upon your kindness, concern, and generosity with a big smile. As we move into the new academic year and begin PSR and other parish activities, we can all assure each other that the health of our community is an essential concern even as we attend to the spiritual and pastoral needs of all.