On May 14th, Governor Cooper lifted all mandatory capacity and gathering limits, social distancing requirements, and most mandatory mask requirements in the state of North Carolina. Shortly following the governor’s address, the Diocese of Raleigh updated their guidance for Masses, parish ministries, and sacraments.
Please click HERE to read the full statement from the diocese, or visit dioceseofraleigh.org/news.
Based on these new guidelines from our state and diocese, we will be implementing the following changes effective immediately:
Sunday Masses
Dispensation and Livestreaming
Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama has continued the dispensation from the Sunday obligation. This applies to all, especially those in a vulnerable or high-risk category. If you do not feel comfortable attending Mass in person, we encourage you to watch the Mass virtually. Masses will continue to be livestreamed on Facebook.
Sign-up
Sign-up is no longer needed to attend any of the Mass services in the main church building. Check-ins will no longer be required.
Masks and Seating
Those people who are not yet vaccinated are asked to wear masks while inside our parish facilities as we continue to care for the health and safety our brothers and sisters in Christ. Parishioners and guests who are fully vaccinated do not have to wear masks. The Parish Hall and deck will be set aside for those who wish to maintain social-distancing. Sign-ups and check-in for these spaces will continue. Those seated inside the Parish Hall are asked to wear masks.
Holy Communion
Precious Blood from the chalice will not be offered at this time. For those in the Parish Hall/deck, Communion will be brought to you.
Other Notes
· Hand fonts will remain empty of Holy Water for now.
· Continue with a non-contact, verbal only Sign of Peace during the liturgy.
· Please continue to follow good hygiene practices, such as frequent hand washing, using hand sanitizer before/after receiving Holy Communion, or sneezing/coughing into a tissue.
· If you feel ill or have any symptoms of illness, please do not attend any in-person liturgy. Rather, please take advantage of the many livestream Mass options available.
Finally, please continue to check your emails, Facebook, or the website for the latest updates and changes to our policies.
Sincerely,
St. Therese Catholic Church
Office Email: office@catholicwb.org
Office Phone: 910-256-2471
