Dear Friends,
By now many of you may have heard that our Bishop Joe Vásquez has announced that on Pentecost weekend we will be lifting the temporary protocols for Mass. This decision has many implications. One is that the obligation to attend Sunday Mass will once again be imposed on all the faithful. But, it is important to remember that if one is ill or concerned about health issues they need to make that decision themselves through and act out of a well informed and educated conscience. Please remember that this has always been the case and nothing has changed other than if we can be at Mass we should be at Mass.
Regarding our current safety protocols, I am seeking the guidance of our councils and medical professionals as we move forward. We may have a hybrid model in the church with some areas still taped off and other sections with the tape removed. This will allow for more seating and allow parishioners to sit where they feel most comfortable. We will continue to encourage the use of masks for all worshippers. This has been a practice that has been very effective and is the primary reason why I do not believe we have had any outbreaks or cases that are traced back to attendees at our Masses. I know that there are some that would prefer not to have to wear a mask (me being one) but it is important to remember that the mask protects other people from ourselves and that is a pretty Christ like thing to do! We will also have hand sanitizer available and ask that you use it. The Family Center is available for overflow. I also plan on opening the door that is on the west side of the church near the ladies bathroom for entrance. The other doors will be used for exit only at this time. We will continue to ask that people receive communion in the hand and the precious blood will still not be offered.
I want to point out that all of this is still being fleshed out. But, I did feel it was important to get some information to you concerning what my thoughts are with regard to our Bishop’s letter. It is good lately to see many faces of folks we have not seen in a long time. I want to make sure that all feel welcomed and comfortable as we move into this new season in our church.
Blessings!
Fr. John
Following Gov. Greg Abbott's recent executive order on the phased reopening of the state of Texas, the Diocese of Austin notified parishes that they may resume the public celebration of Mass beginning May 5.
Bishop Joe Vásquez asked that we follow protocols that are consistent with the governor’s and attorney general’s recommendations. Please read the decree and letter to faithful below for more information.
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O Mary,
you always shine on our path
as a sign of salvation and of hope.
We entrust ourselves to you, Health of the Sick,
who at the cross took part in Jesus' pain, keeping your faith firm.
You, Salvation of the Roman People,
know what we need,
and we are sure you will provide
so that, as in Cana of Galilee,
we may return to joy and to feasting
after this time of trial.
Help us, Mother of Divine Love,
to conform to the will of the Father
and to do as we are told by Jesus,
who has taken upon himself our sufferings
and carried our sorrows
to lead us, through the cross,
to the joy of the resurrection. Amen.
Under your protection, we seek refuge, Holy Mother of God. Do not disdain the entreaties of we who are in trial, but deliver us from every danger, O glorious and blessed Virgin.
-Pope Francis
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