Dearest Parishioners,
We have waited a long time to share this great news!
With the expected announcement by the state on Friday, June 11, to re-open all sectors of society within the state, we will be following the Illinois public health guidelines to open to pre-pandemic conditions on our campus this weekend. This news comes with great hope to get back to a sense of “normalcy” that many of us are craving.
What changes can you expect?
- Those who are fully vaccinated, i.e, two weeks past the last required COVID-19 vaccine dose, can now enter our facilities without a mask.
- If you are not fully vaccinated, you should continue to wear a mask.
- The Church and its meeting facilities will now allow 100% capacity for any activities inside. There are no limitations on outside event participation.
- No registration for these activities will be required.
- Hand sanitizer will still be available, but not required, for entering or exiting the Church or at the reception of Communion.
- Singing is allowed, inclusive of larger singing ensembles.
- Worship aids are now permitted. We will be ordering new hymnals, so look forward to new ones to come soon.
- The presentation of gifts is now allowed.
- A sign of peace, with no physical contact, is allowed.
- We will be able to have food at meetings observing pre-pandemic sanitary guidelines.
What is not changing yet?
- Dispensation guidelines remain in place for the time being, while parishes adjust to the new protocols.
- We will still clean the Church daily.
- Holy water fonts will remain empty for the time being.
- Chalices for wine will not be offered at this time.
- Passed collection baskets will not occur at this time.
These guidelines will do much to restore our Masses and Parish activities to our pre-pandemic operations. Any of our youth activities, including the return to school this fall, will have guidelines issued for those activities at a later date this summer.
Your patience and support throughout these tough times have been greatly appreciated. We look forward to “seeing” everyone’s bright cheerful smiling faces during the upcoming weeks as you return to Mass. Please encourage those who have stayed away to join you as you attend a weekend Mass. It may be a great way to kick off your summer with a new spring to your step!
Yours in Christ,
Rev. James A. Schwab