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January 7, 2021
We have now been living with Covid-19 for nearly a year. Initially we were very concerned and scared. We didn’t really know what it was we had to do. In all kinds of ways, we have experienced limitations on what we can and cannot do for safety. A year later there is the danger that we are now complacent. Our attitude has become that if we do the things we are asked to do, everything will be fine. Right now everything is not fine. We have entered Stage 5 of the pandemic. The Governor’s office has advised people to stay at home as much as possible. We are to continue with social distancing and wear our masks when we are out and about. Hospitals are now at full capacity. This is the time when we must be make a commitment to be safe.
For that reason, may I remind people of some of the regulations that were handed down by the Diocese. “The following members of the faithful are dispensed from the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and other holy days of obligation during the time of this pandemic. These include
- those who are sick;
- those who are 65 or older
- those who have been advised by health care workers or caregivers to not attend Mass;
- those who sincerely believe that attending Mass will jeopardize their health or the health of a person with whom they reside; and
- those who sincerely believe that because of the limitations imposed by the temporary protocols attending Mass is not reasonable; and that those who are dispensed from the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays or holy days of obligation are to make other acts of spiritual devotion such as a spiritual communion, and viewing Mass by remote means.”
For the time being, the parish offices will be closed to the public. If you wish to conduct business with the office, you may do that on the phone. The priests will not be taking appointments in person. You may speak to your priest on the phone. Business with parish reception must be conducted on the phone. The priests will not be visiting the nursing homes right now. They will only visit a loved one who is sick under very strict circumstances. We will continue to monitor the situation. When we feel it is safe to do so we will revisit these regulations again.
May God bless you,
Fr. Pat and staff