Our Saint Catherine and Saint Sebastian Parishes’ Re-opening Subcommittee has advised me to set Sunday, June 21, as the target date for re-opening for Sunday public Masses. I have agreed to this. The group will meet weekly to assess current situations and provide recommendations so that together we can remain vigilant in safeguarding the health of our faith communities. Please accept our sincere gratefulness for understanding our caution and concerns for the safety of those who may choose to attend Mass in person.
We are following the Archdiocese as well as the City’s guideline for 25% of church capacity. We ask that everyone wear a mask; masks will be provided for those without them. Ushers will have been trained to ensure that COVID prevention rules are observed. The information in my letter on May 27 of what to expect upon returning still holds; here is a link to the Comeback Letter and Guidelines. We will adapt the liturgy to our unique style.
- Mass at Saint Catherine will be 9 AM; Masses at Saint Sebastian will be 8 AM and 6 PM.
- The 8:00 am Sunday Mass at Saint Sebastian will be live-streamed on Saint Sebastian’s Facebook page.
If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms or a fever, you are to PLEASE STAY HOME.
The most vulnerable are also encouraged to please stay home. This includes:
- Those 60 and older
- Those with compromised immune systems or with underlying health concerns
- Those who are anxious about the safety of being in public places during this time
Archbishop Listecki extended dispensation from Sunday Mass obligation to August 2, 2020. All persons may use their own discretion about attending Mass until that time. Please know that if you are not comfortable with our best efforts for sanitizing and social distancing, we will understand your decision to remain at home. We will joyfully await your arrival when you do feel comfortable returning to Mass.
Jeremiah tells us that as a community of believers, we are reminded of the power of communal prayer and of God’s unending presence. He is with us in our trials of viral infection, racial injustices, indignities and even death, and when quarantined families face domestic violence with little or no hope of escape. It will be wonderful to gather again to pray collectively.
Yours in Christ’s Peace,
Fr. Peter Patrick Kimani