A Message from Father Jeff
I am happy to announce that, beginning this weekend, parishioners will be able to resume receiving communion. This is our first step in a process which we hope will soon make public Mass possible. Sacraments (especially Eucharist) are an important part of our faith life and as the community begins to reopen this first step will allow for this reception of Christ in Holy Communion.
Having said this, I want to make sure it is done in a safe and reverent way. The current crisis is far from over and therefore how we do this will not be “business as usual.” After consulting both medical and religious experts, there is agreement that this crisis presents a serious threat to the lives of many. As Catholics who are called to respect all human life, act responsibly in the manner you conduct yourself. First, keep in mind that you have a general dispensation from attending Mass and receiving communion until further notice. Therefore, if you are not feeling well or you have health issues that put you or others at risk, please stay home. A spiritual communion is valid and has been long recognized as the means of communicating when one does not have access to the Eucharist. No mortal sin is committed if you decide it is best for you or your family not to attend.
Please note that the priest, deacon, or minister will be masked while giving out the sacrament and will follow strict hand sanitation to help keep everyone safe. The Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions (FDLC) advises that receiving in the hand is the safest way to receive communion. The medical community is for the most part in agreement. Our local epidemiologist told me the highest concentration of coronaviruses is found in the saliva. Therefore, for the time being, I ask you receive in the hand.
As your pastor, my concern is to distribute communion in a safe and reverent manner. We will evaluate after Sunday and continue to consult with those who are most knowledgeable in these areas. As things improve, hopefully we will see another step when we can gather in church for Mass. From all indicators, I am sure this will be a gradual process that will take time.
I am grateful for the patience and perseverance that so many of you have shown during this challenging time. I am also well pleased by the stories I hear of parishioners who have sacrificed to help others. This is the type of charity Christ calls us to do. I encourage all to practice charity to your neighbor as well as pray for the sick, their caregivers, those out of work, and all affected by this pandemic. I also encourage you to worship with us by watching the parish Mass on our website. Come to communion if you are able and above all, keep safe. Your health and the health of others is a gift from God. Treat it with the utmost respect. Please know you are in my prayers as we go through these challenging times together.
Yours in Christ, Father Jeffery Grant
Communion Available
- Communion will be distributed on Sunday morning from 9:30 to 10:30 AM and again from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at the front entrance to the school.
- Vehicles should enter the parking lot from the Walnut St. entrance closest to the rectory. Park your car and wait (Glenwood entrance will be closed)
- The sidewalk along the north side of the lot will be marked in 6 foot increments. This is the communion line. You may wait as a family or an individual, but remember, this is not a time for visiting. It is a time to prepare yourself to receive the Lord. We ask that you pray the Our Father as you approach the school.
- You need to wear a mask as you approach the entrance.
- When you reach the front of the school, there will be a hand sanitizer station for you to clean your hands - please use it.
- Two communion ministers will be stationed at the doors to the school. When it is your turn and the person in front of you has departed, you may approach and receive communion and then exit on the other side. Be sure to offer a prayer thanking Jesus for allowing you to receive Him today.
- Return to your car and leave the parking lot via the south exit on Walnut.
- If you are unable to get out of you car because of health reasons, let the attendant know and they will direct your car to a place where communion will be brought to you.