While some churches will be heralding their re-opening this weekend, I am happy to say that Our Lady of Mount Virgin has never closed. While following Diocesan guidelines, the church has been open every single day, offering an opportunity for Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and a peaceful place for prayer and meditation during these difficult times.
On June 12 we are resuming our regular Mass, Confession, and Adoration schedule. Please consult the Bulletin for times. We will, however, have to operate within certain continuing guidelines. It is important that all parishioners be familiar with these guidelines and patiently cooperate in their observation.
1. DO NOT COME TO CHURCH IF YOU OR A MEMBER OF YOUR HOUSEHOLD IS SHOWING SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19. Prayerfully consider whether you should come to church if you are in one of the vulnerable categories because of age (>65) or a health condition. The Bishop’s suspension of the obligation to attend Mass on Sunday remains in effect.
2. Social distancing of 6 feet must be observed between households. That means it is impossible to predict how many the church will actually be able to accommodate. If possible, households should attend the same Mass. We are trying to avoid the necessity of parishioners having to make reservations in advance. Please consider attending the 8am, 11:30 am or 1:30 pm Spanish Mass, as these Masses are generally less well attended. Once the church reaches capacity, we will have to turn people away. The 10:00 am Mass will be broadcast on FM radio to the parking lot (similar to what we have been doing for the last three Sundays). Those participating in the 10:00 am Mass from their cars will have to come into the church for Holy Communion. We will re-assess our approach after the first weekend.
3. Please follow signs regarding open entrances and follow the directions of the ushers as to seating.
4. YOU MUST WEAR A FACE MASK. We will not be able to provide face masks, so you must bring your own. (Children under 2 years of age with chronic respiratory issues need not wear face masks.) You may choose to wear gloves, but must remove them to receive Holy Communion. Please do not leave used face masks or gloves or anything else (e.g,, tissues or candy wrappers) on the premises.
5. YOU MUST USE HAND SANITIZER UPON ENTERING THE CHURCH. While Please feel free to bring your own sanitizer in addition.
6. There will be no Missalettes or other worship aids available. You may choose to print off the Mass readings from the USCCB website. The Gloria and Creed and other Mass pasts are also available on line. Please do not leave anything at all in the pews.
7. We will wipe down pews between Masses with disinfectant. You may bring your own wipes if you choose to also wipe down your own area. You may not leave the used wipes in the church.
8. Holy Communion will be distributed in the church. Holy Communion may only be received in your hand. You may not wear a glove for the reception of Holy Communion. Please remove your face mask for the reception of Holy Communion. There will be no distribution of the Precious Blood from the chalice.
9. There will be no exchange of a sign of peace.
10. There will be instrumental and some limited sung music, but there will be no congregational singing.
11. Please take a copy of the Bulletin home with you. If you read a Bulletin in church, please take it home with you. Do not leave it in the church.
12. The cry room will be closed. While the rest room will be open for emergencies, please use the rest room before you leave your house.
14. The church will be open daily from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Please do not come to the parish office unless you have an appointment. Please communicate with staff by email or by leaving a voice mail.
Thank you in advance for your kindness, understanding, and cooperation. Please God, be well and stay safe.