Modified Safety Protocols

04-19-2021Weekly Flocknote MessageFr. James Aboyi, V.C.

We thank God that the rate of new cases of COVID-19 is declining consistently with more people vaccinated. After a careful evaluation of our current Covid-19 related safety protocols, and paying attention to the Diocesan and CDC guidelines, we have modified our parish protocols to reflect the current situation. I am happy to share with you some things you may now notice that have been changed:

  1. All of the  chairs have been returned inside the Church.
  2. The sitting area in the narthex of the Church is available for use by individuals and families.
  3. We can now resume praying the Rosary before Mass.
  4. All parts of the Mass are being sung. Music is also allowed at the daily Masses again.
  5. More Communion stations have been added during all weekend Masses.
  6. More classes from SJB may attend the school Mass in person on Fridays.
  7. The 5:00pm Saturday and 9:00am Sunday Masses will continue to be live-streamed for those who are sick or unable to attend Mass in person.
  8. The sign of peace may be offered to family members or others through a gesture such as a nod, bow or a simple hand wave.
  9. The use of face coverings will continue to be recommended in accordance with the CDC guidelines and advice from the medical community, particularly indoors for those not able to stay at least 6 feet apart from groups that are unrelated or not in the same household.
  10. Hospitality ministers may hand bulletins safely to you as you leave the Church.
  11. Holy Communion will continue to be offered at the main entrance of the Church for 30 minutes after the 5pm Mass on Saturday and 9am Mass on Sunday and  for 20 minutes after the Daily Mass.
  12. The RE classes, parish programs and meetings are being held safely in person. Ministry leaders will determine where and when to use virtual meetings for those who are not able to attend in person.
  13. We have resumed offering Masses at some Care Facilities and our Pastoral Care Ministers have resumed visiting and giving Holy Communion to the sick and to those in Care facilities following the recommended safety protocols.

I thank everyone for observing the safety protocols for over a year now. We are not totally out of the woods yet, but we can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Let us continue to pray for a speedy end to the pandemic and comfort for those who have been affected by it.

Update: Charity Development Appeal

During the week, I received an update for our parish participation in the Charity and Development Appeal (CDA). I was delighted to see that 198 families from our parish community have participated in the CDA so far with a total pledge of $57,187. This represents 67% of our total goal of $85,000. I thank those who have already participated. I encourage those who have not  yet done so, to please consider sending their pledge or payment this week.

Mothers’ Day Raffle

The Mothers’ Day raffle tickets are on sale beginning this weekend. Tickets are available at the back of the church after Masses and in the parish office. We have eight gift baskets in all for the raffle and you can select the particular basket you hope to win. I thank the Events Committee for organizing the Raffle. Thanks also to all those who donated the different gift items for the baskets. We look forward to seeing who the lucky winners will be on Mothers’ Day.

Remain Blessed,

Fr James Aboyi, VC Pastor

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