Public Health-Dayton & Montgomery County (PHDMC) recommends the use of face masks while indoors and near others, for all individuals 2 years of age and older, regardless of vaccination status. We urge everyone to wear a mask if possible. (To help the vulnerable; to help the immunocompromised; to help those not able to receive the vaccine.
We do welcome all to worship with us, unmasked & masked.
At the sign of peace please respect that all people are not comfortable shaking hands. Please use your best discretion especially with those who are not in your family or social circle.
Sections 1, 2, 3 & 4 and will not have ropes to provide for social distance. Those sitting in these sections will need to process forward to receive communion. Attendees sitting in section 5 (with the ropes) to the right of the altar (opposite side from the choir) will remain in the pew for communion. Additionally, seating is also provided in the Gathering Space.
The Bishops of Ohio have lifted the dispensation from Sunday Mass and Holy Days of Obligation. (effective June 5th and 6th, 2021) The letter from the Bishops of Ohio state that “As has always been the case, those who have a serious reason are exempt from attending Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2181)”
This includes:
1. those who are ill,
2. have significant health risk factors or care for someone who is immuno-compromised or ill,
3. as well as those who have significant fear or anxiety of contracting the coronavirus in a large group of persons.
The letter goes on to say: “Nevertheless, these persons should observe the Lord’s Day (CIC, can. 1247) and are encouraged to spend time in prayer on Sunday, meditating on the Lord’s passion, death and resurrection; an appropriate way to do this is through viewing a broadcast of the Sunday Mass.
Masses that are broadcast through various media are not intended as a substitute nor do they fulfill the obligation for the persons who are able to gather for a Sunday celebration and other Holy Days of Obligation. Instead, they are intended for the sick, home-bound, the imprisoned, etc., who are unable to attend Mass in-person. Kindly consult your pastor with any specific questions regarding the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation.”
We remember that the Sunday Mass is the place where the Body of Christ gathers to worship God. God does not need our worship but shares his life with us through the Eucharist, the Scriptures and our common worship together. That Sabbath, or the Holy day of rest, is that day where we bring our lives to God so that he can heal us, guide us, and keep us close to Him.
Only united in Christ will we help each other through these times as the people of St. Francis of Assisi Parish.
To be considerate of our brothers and sisters worshipping together at Mass, we are highly encouraging all to continue to wear masks while at church.