There has been some confusion with regard to the reopening of our Church.  The president has announced that all churches are essential and has encouraged the reopening of all churches.  While we agree that religion is essential to our lives, reopening our Church is not so simple.  We have a responsibility to make sure that we do so safely and that we prioritize the health of everyone.

　　We are working with the Archdiocese and with the state and local governments in developing a plan for safe reopening.  Archbishop Gomez has stated clearly that our churches remain closed at the present time until our plans can be safely implemented.  The reopening will probably take place in phases.  We may be opening our churches first for personal visits, then for Masses with a limited number of people and finally, only when the threat of the coronavirus is significantly diminished, the celebration of Masses with full congregations.  During the transition time it is expected that face coverings, social distancing and proper sanitizing will be required.  The dispensation from the obligation of Sunday Mass continues until the threat of COVID-19 is under control.

　　None of us like to have all these restrictions but, as Archbishop Gomez has said, they are given out of love and care for you our people.  Announcements on specific steps in the reopening process will be forthcoming.   Some of these announcements will be on the news and information with regard to our own parish will be on this website.  We thank you for your patience and cooperation in all this and pray God’s blessings on all of you.   Be safe.  Be healthy.  And may the Lord watch over us all.