We are grateful to all who participated in the survey to answer the question of “should the 10:00 am Mass move to being mask optional?” The survey was open from September 22 – October 4, 2022.
The staff has reviewed the results, read every comment, and discussed your responses. We value the time you spent in sharing your thoughtful comments with us.
The results of the survey were approximately 2:1 in favor of removing the mask mandate and making masks optional for the 10:00 am Mass.
Beginning October 16, 2022, all Masses, including the 10:00 am Mass, will be mask optional.
In order to help accommodate and welcome everyone, we are designating a “masked” section of the church for those wearing masks who need to maintain distance from others. These areas are the side rows by the altar, the green movable chairs by the baptismal font, and the green movable chairs behind the altar during Masses where there is no choir.
Please know that if you choose to wear a mask, you are also welcome to sit anywhere in the church at all Masses.
Another option for those looking to go to a less crowded Mass, please know that the church is not as full during the 11:45 am Mass, and there is plenty of room for those who want to maintain distance from others.
Also, our Eucharistic Ministers will continue to wear masks during the distribution of Communion at all Masses.
Similar to the survey this summer, many of the comments were altruistic in expressing concern for those who may not be able to attend Mass without a mask requirement. There were also many who expressed concern for cooler temperatures and cold / flu / and more contagious Covid variants the winter might bring. There are still others who have serious health concerns and who expressed concern that they might not be able to continue joining us in person for this season.
We encourage everyone to please participate in the worshiping environment that best meets your needs at this time. Please mask if you aren’t feeling well, and stay home if you’re sick. Let’s consider those around us as we move forward into this new season as a community.
Livestream Masses are available on Facebook, YouTube, and Vimeo and are streamed Saturday at 4:00 pm and Sunday at 10:00 am.
