Things to keep in mind:
- The Bishop has removed the obligation to attend Mass for all Catholics in the Diocese through the end of August, 2020
- Those over 65 who have a health condition, or who have a cough or any sort, or are feeling sick to any degree, or are caring for the sick in any way, are at higher risk on contracting the virus and should not come to church.
- All people over 2 years old must wear masks upon entering the church until they leave, except when receiving communion.
- Certain rows are roped off, and only 125 people will be allowed inside the building. This will be strictly enforced.
- Except for families, people must sit 6 feet apart.
- Tape will be on the Communion aisles to indicate proper spacing.
- The daily Mass Chapel will be kept closed and locked.
- Separate worship aids will be used for each Mass.
- Altar servers will not be needed, and choirs are not allowed.
- Staff members will take care of setting up everything for Mass, as well as clean-up after Mass.
- The Book of the Gospels will not be carried in.
- Collection baskets will not be passed among the people. Baskets for offering will located conveniently in the church.
- The offertory procession (bringing up the gifts) will be omitted.
- There will be no Sign of Peace exchanged during Mass.
- The priest and those who help to distribute Communion must wear masks whole they give the Body of Christ to those in church.
- A stand will be placed at every Communion station along with a bottle of hand sanitizer. People are asked not to receive the Body of Christ on the tongue but in the hand only. If the person distributing Communion ends up accidentally touching someone else’s hands, the Communion minister must use the hand sanitizer before distributing to the next person.
- People must remove any face coverings or gloves while receiving Communion.
- The announcements and final blessing occur BEFORE people receive Communion. After someone receives Communion, they simply leave church. This guarantees a slow trickle of people leaving instead of everyone at once.
- The Church will be sanitized after each Mass.