Time and again, Jesus brings us back to communion, unity, oneness with the Father and with one another. We will have an opportunity to put that into practice in a new way beginning this weekend!
In light of the recent easing of COVID-19 restrictions by New York State, we can now consider meaningful steps towards the “reopening and return” of our parish. After consultation and feedback from the Trustees, Parish Council, Priests, and Staff of the parish, I have decided on the the following step beginning Saturday May 22nd at the 5:30 PM (Vigil of Pentecost Mass):
IHM will provide 3 areas to accommodate various preferences/requirements.
1. The Adoration Chapel will be reserved for those fully vaccinated individuals who prefer not to wear masks indoors. No social distancing will be offered. The stained glass windows will be opened, but the clear glass windows facing the altar will be kept closed (door will be open for Mass so as to facilitate the distribution of Holy Communion).
2. The Carman Road side of the main body of the church will continue as a physical distance section for those wearing masks who prefer or who are required to physically distance.
3. The school/parking lot side of the main body of the church will no longer observe social distancing, but proper wearing of masks will be required. This is intended for fully vaccinated persons.
The church will continue to be sanitized between Masses.
Anyone with symptoms of the Virus should absent themselves from in person Mass.
Beginning Memorial Day Weekend, recurring Mass registrations will be suspended and these 3 accommodations will be offered for Mass sign-up as we seek to expand our capacity to receive people back to Sunday Mass, step-by-step.
As we come to Mass to unite ourselves with Jesus and to deepen our communion with each other in the Lord, thank you for you understanding, integrity and concern for all.
In Christ,
Msgr. Luke Sweeney
Pastor