Dear Parishioners of Sts. Martha, Mary, Lazarus Friends of Jesus,
I would like to inform you that I (Fr. T.J) have tested positive for COVID-19. My last Mass was Sunday, November 1st at 7 am, which shortly after that I read an email from the diocese that I was at an event where another priest had recently tested positive for Covid-19. I was asked to isolate immediately and get tested. My symptoms have been very mild and I feel like I have a common cold.
Fortunately, Fr. Ralph was on vacation last week and has not been exposed to me since he got back. We have had virtually no contact and our rectory is big enough to make sure we can safely distance without spreading the virus. Fr. Ralph will be able to continue to offer the sacraments including regularly scheduled Masses and confessions.
As you are aware, our parish has taken very seriously our compliance with the government and Archdiocesan guidelines regarding safety protocols to prevent the spread of the virus. We strongly encourage you to monitor your health for any symptoms if you were at a Mass I celebrated or if you came to me for confession on Saturday. If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, please seek medical attention immediately and be tested for COVID-19. There are a number of free COVID-19 testing sites throughout our community.
I will keep you informed through our parish Flock-notes regarding any changes to my status or the Church schedule. Please keep everyone in your prayers who are affected by this virus. I am very grateful for all of your prayers and I am optimistic that everything will be okay.
Sincerely in Christ,
Father T.J. Dolce
Pastor, Sts. Martha, Mary, Lazarus, friends of Jesus