This week we were told officially by our federal government to be prepared for the coming coronavirus. Therefore as a parish, we will be prudent in our preparations,
not panicky,
not political, by observing the following practices:
By far most important is this: if we are sick, then we will stay home and not infect others by attending Mass. There is no sin whatsoever in missing Mass on Sunday due to illness.
We will suspend communion by the cup and on the tongue until further notice. Please remember this in no way diminishes our reception of Christ’s Eucharistic presence.
We will respect those who do not wish to shake hands at the sign of peace or hold hands during the “Our Father.”
We will not bless ourselves with Holy Water upon entering the church. Our baptismal font will be drained this week and remain empty for the duration of Lent.
We will remember that there are hand gel stations located in the Commons and use them as needed.
Thank you for understanding, and let’s pray for a swift end to the coronavirus epidemic.