New Covid Guidelines – Effective May 22, 2021
- Effective on the Vigil of Pentecost, May 22, 2021, the obligation to attend Holy Mass resumes as it was prior to the pandemic, except for those with underlying health conditions. Parishioners who are ill or caring for someone who is ill, or those who feel their health would be endangered by attending are not bound to physically attend.
- Following CDC guidelines if you are fully vaccinated, masks are no longer required. Masks are recommended for vulnerable persons and especially for those who are not yet vaccinated.
- The provision of hand sanitizer for everyone entering the church may be continued as needed.
- Pastors should make a reasonable attempt to provide some seating that can be socially distanced, especially if requested.
- Holy water may be returned to holy water fonts/stoups. These should be cleaned more regularly than in the past.
- Worship aids and hymnals can be returned to pews.
- Choirs may resume ordinary singing. If members are closely seated and some are not vaccinated, they should wear masks between songs.
- For the collection, members of the congregation may pass baskets among themselves.
- The Sign of Peace may be shared with a handshake-or some other sign as individuals prefer.
- When distributing Holy Communion, Ministers should continue to wear masks that cover the mouth and nose and sanitize their hands before distribution.
- Congregational reception of the Precious Blood continues to be suspended for the time being.
- Bulletins may be distributed.
- Pews do not need to be routinely sanitized between every Mass.
- With the Pastor’s prudent planning, parish celebrations, events, and activities may resume.