From Fr. John:
I know you are concerned about the spread of the coronavirus and have questions regarding what steps our parish is taking in response to this issue.
I want to assure you of the steps we are taking to keep our parish and school communities healthy.
Our parish and Diocese are monitoring developments locally and beyond our area. We are constantly reviewing our prevention measures and are guided by the recommendations of the local and state health officials, the Centers for Disease Control, and the U.S. Catholic Bishops. Here is our current status:
- There are currently no changes to our planned Masses. We will continue to hold all of our regularly scheduled Masses on the weekend and our morning Mass on weekdays and Saturday.
- We have instructed our visiting priests, deacon, and extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion to wash their hands before
Mass begins and use an alcohol-based anti-bacterial solution before and after distributing Holy Communion. - We ask that there be no physical contact before, during, and after the Mass. We are distributing Holy Communion in the
hand only and not on the tongue. - We have emptied all our holy water fonts. Any holy water required for liturgies will be disposed of appropriately afterwards.
Our priests are washing their hands before and after using the sacred oils. - Please stay home when you are ill. Those who are ill are not obligated to attend Mass. For the ill, the homebound, or the
aged who cannot attend Mass, Mass is broadcast each Sunday morning at 5:00 a.m. on
Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), and at 8:30 a.m. on KOFY-TV Channel 20. - During this cold and flu season, please use good common sense to stay healthy. Get a flu shot. Avoid contact with people
who are sick. Wash your hands frequently for 20 seconds. Use at least a 60% alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water
are not available. Cough into your elbow or a tissue. Avoid touching your face.
Here at our parish, we are increasing our hygiene and sanitary procedures to protect the health and well-being of our people. We will keep you posted of any changes as they arise.
I understand this is a challenging time for everyone. I appreciate your patience and collaboration with us as we work together in the days ahead.
Please join me in praying for the healing of all who are affected by coronavirus and those who are caring for them, and for the repose of the souls of those who have died from this illness.
Let us remember that our loving and merciful Father is with us in times of challenge and uncertainty as we ask him to strengthen and guide us during this time.