Welcome Back to Full Capacity!
By decree of Bp. Edward Malesic, beginning on June 2, 2021, we will be open to full capacity for worship and meetings. Here is what you can expect:
Face Masks
Face masks are no longer required, but are strongly suggested for those who have not yet received the COVID-19 vaccine or are otherwise vulnerable. It is important to respect the decision of any person choosing to continue wearing a mask.
Social Distancing
Social Distancing is no longer required. All pews will be in use. You may sit where you like.
The Plaza will continue to be used for socially distanced seating. In the case that you prefer to remain socially distanced, please ask an usher to seat you in the plaza.
Physical Contact
It is your decision whether to return to the culturally customary physical greetings or not. All should respect the comfort level of the other and not presume to embrace someone who is hesitant. Nor should anyone feel offended if a hug or handshake is refused. We are still in this together.
If a person is wearing a mask, the presumption should be that they are being most cautious and that person should be the one to initiate any physical contact.
Holy Water
The fonts at the doors will now contain holy water.
Liturgical Ministers
The ministries that have been limited or suspended will return to normal service, including multiple lectors and altar servers.
Liturgical Processions
We will begin and end with the normal procession. There will now also be a procession of the gifts for the offertory.
The Sign of Peace
The same guideline, as for Physical Contact above, is what should be observed for the sign of peace. Presume no-contact greetings to people who are wearing masks. Be sensitive of any person who seems hesitant and find a no-contact way to greet them. Please do not move from your pew to offer the sign of peace to people in other parts of the chapel.
Holy Communion
We will return to the Communion procession.
The distribution of the Precious Blood remains suspended until further notice.
It is highly recommended that one receive Holy Communion in the hand, but one will not be refused Communion on the tongue.
Hymnals
The ushers will offer you the books as you enter. Please return them to the carts in the plaza on your way out. Please do not take the books or the missalette home with you.
Disinfecting of the Church
The high touch areas of the building will continue to be disinfected frequently.
Hand Sanitizer
Sanitizer will continue to be available at the doors, and for the ministers of Communion.
Miscellaneous