Let's look at numbers for each Mass this past weekend.

4 PM          117

6 PM            46

8 AM            81

10 AM          70

12 PM          94

2 PM            53

     Except for Christmas, that's the highest number of people we've had since November 1st.  Notice that the 4 PM Mass was pretty full.  It ties our previous record of 117 on October 11th.  While we could fit a few more people at 4 PM, I recommend trying one of the other Masses.

     It sure likes like new cases are going down dramatically around the country.  Because of the new variants, Governor Murphy is more slowly reducing restrictions.

     Because of the trend and more people getting the vaccine, I think we're going to have to adapt here at St. John's.  Currently, we have plenty of room at every Mass but the 4 PM.  When multiple Masses start nearing capacity, I think we should reduce the 6 foot rule to 4 feet in the center sections of the church.  This is not inconsistent with Governor Murphy allowing for a higher percentage capacity inside.  Also, I know that several parishes use every other pew instead of every third pew.  Currently, we limit ourselves to less than 15% capacity.  I think we're allowed up to 30% and soon to be raised to 50%.  As we reduce the space between people, it'll be even more important for people to wear masks properly.

     Basically, I'm thrilled for us to gradually open up more and more.  Let's be prudent as we do this.

God love you,

Fr. Jim