As you know, COVID-19 infection rates are rapidly increasing primarily due to the Omicron variant. The next several weeks will be critical as health experts predict the infection rates will continue to rise. It is important that we be prudent and reasonable in our efforts to help mitigate the spread of this disease. The Diocese has issued updated liturgical guidance in this matter.  There are minor changes with a few reminders.  Hopefully, they will help keep us healthy and comfortable.  The items to be aware of are:

• Clergy and volunteers are STRONGLY ENCOURAGED, to obtain COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters.
• Parishioners are encouraged (not required) to wear masks while attending Mass.
• Mass attendees over the age of 5 who are not vaccinated for COVID-19 must wear a mask.
• Clergy and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion must carefully adhere to proper hand sanitization following the distribution of communion on the tongue.
• Parishioners are encouraged to use hand sanitizer when entering and leaving the church and before using holy water fonts.
• If you are experiencing symptoms, please stay home and consult a health care professional.

In addition to these guidelines, Clergy and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion will wear masks during the distribution of Holy Communion for the next several weeks. 

All of us must do what we need to do in order to feel safe but we must also remember to not stop living.