And the angel said unto them, Fear not: I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

The Celebration Of The Sacraments In Time Of Pandemic

The following summary is based on updates to the Diocesan Instructions for the Celebration of the Sacraments In Time of Pandemic after consulting new guidelines provided by the CDC, NYS and the advice of medical professionals. It is important to note that appropriate measures are being taken to accommodate  the faithful with the awareness that they include both the vaccinated and unvaccinated members. We rely on the goodness and honesty of our people to follow State guidelines regarding those fully vaccinated and unvaccinated.

UPDATED PROTOCOLS

Parishioners are no longer required to pre-register for Mass, but we will take names as you enter church at least until the end of June. This is just a precaution we our taking.

Parishioners who are fully vaccinated are not required to wear a face mask at Mass.

All who prefer to continue wearing facial covering are free to do so.  

Those who are NOT fully vaccinated should observe social distancing of six feet from individuals not in their household. They ARE to wear a face mask at Mass. Even if fully vaccinated, social distancing from those who are wearing a mask is requested.  

We have created "a physical distance section" within the church for those who are required to wear masks and engage in social distancing and/or for those who may be fully vaccinated but wish to continue to follow distancing practices. This section is on the left side of the Church facing the Altar. The right hand side of the church facing the Altar will be fully open. Parishioners may be seated in a staggered fashion while respecting six feet social distance, where required.  

Lectors, servers, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion and sacristans must continue to follow prescribed handwashing and sanitizing practices.

The Offertory processions with the gifts of bread and wine will resume. The Offertory collection will continue with the use of the collection box in the center aisle.

At the Sign of Peace there still should be no physical contact.

For the distribution of Holy Communion, those distributing the Eucharist will continue using hand sanitizer, masks. While in the Communion line, communicants should maintain social distancing from those not in their household.

Holy Water fonts will remain empty.

The use of permanent worship aid, missalettes and hymnals may resume.

Bulletins may be distributed at Mass and may also be distributed electronically.