Dear Saint Teresa Parishioners,
While closely monitoring CDC and local health department guidelines as they are significantly loosening restrictions on gatherings during this pandemic, and working with our parish council and medical experts, Saint Teresa Parish will reinstate some aspects of the Mass that had previously been suspended. The safety of our parishioners and priests has remained the top priority of our parish leadership throughout this difficult time.
Here's what’s going to change:
- Holy Water will be available in the fonts.
- The priests will process in at the beginning and end of Mass.
- Congregational singing will be allowed (and is encouraged!).
- Parishioners will bring up Offertory. If you would like to bring up the Offertory, pick up the “Gift Bearers” card from the gifts table in the back of church and keep it with you. After the Prayers of the Faithful, come to the back of church, replace the card, and bring up the gifts.
- We will begin using the Communion Rail (and people are welcome to receive on the tongue). People who would like to use the Communion Rail should use the center aisles to come forward, regardless of whether they are seated in the front or back of church. Those that prefer to receive Communion standing and in-the-hand may use the side aisles to go to the back of the church where this (standing and in-hand) will be the option.
Here’s what’ll stay the same:
- If you have any symptom(s) of COVID—even the mildest symptom—stay at home!
- Please wear a mask or face covering when you attend Mass.
- Pews and surfaces will still be cleaned regularly, and remember: we have an air purification system installed in the church.
- We will still social-distance. That is, we will keep 6 feet between people or households.
- Offering: Ushers will not collect our donations. Please place your envelopes in the baskets at the exits or in the drop-slot at the rectory.
- Mass will still be live-streamed and available for later viewing.
Note: The Saturday 8:15am Mass is consistently at 15-20% capacity and is a good option for those who would prefer a Mass which has lower attendance. Saturday’s Mass will utilize the Communion Rail but will not have offertory, singing, or procession.
Father Hottovy and the Parish Council thank you, the beloved parish family of St. Teresa, for your patience, understanding, and prayers.
May God bless you and keep you in His peace and health,
Father Jamie Hottovy
Pastor | Saint Teresa Parish