HOLY COMMUNION WILL BE AVAILABLE for those who wish to receive beginning the weekend of Pentecost, May 30/31. Remember, as reiterated by Bishop Ricken, that there is still no moral obligation for any Catholic to receive Communion under our current circumstances.
Pentecost is the conclusion of the 50-day Easter Season, and marks the "Birthday of the Church", when the Holy Spirit descended in power upon the disciples. It is our hope that this weekend can represent a STEP TOWARD our own re-birth and renewal in the face of the coronavirus pandemic. But it will be a long way from normal, and we urge you NOT to bring yourself to church for Communion if you are at risk, and ESPECIALLY if you are showing any symptoms of illness whatsoever.
We will publicize further details about precautions and procedures, but for now, please note the following: Holy Communion will be offered AFTER the Saturday livestream of the Mass, approximately 5:30-6:30pm on Saturday, May 30. Another window of opportunity will be available after Bishop Ricken’s 10:30am televised Mass approximately 11:00am-12:00pm on Sunday morning, May 31.
Because the Eucharist is an integral part of our celebration of the Mass, the intent is that any person receiving Communion will have participated in a livestream or broadcast Mass before coming to Church. This is not "curbside pickup" at a restaurant! Those attending should begin in the EAST parking lot, behind the church. Volunteers and signage will give more specific instructions as people arrive, so they can line up in preparation to enter church in limited numbers.
Those coming to Mass are expected to wear a mask, which can be moved aside after receiving Communion in the hand, in order for the communicant to consume the consecrated host. Wearing a mask - especially when going indoors with others - is an act of charity for the well-being of our neighbor, not even primarily for our own protection. Those arriving without a mask will be given one by the parish.
All participants will be expected to maintain a safe distance from others in attendance.
As you can see, this is definitely not yet a return to "normal", but we are glad to be making a temporary and intermediate step on the way to our worship as a community. One way or another, we miss you and look forward to being in touch with you soon!
Click here for a message from Bishop Ricken
