May 20, 2021
Dear Disciples of the Lord,
May the Holy Spirit pour out the love of God into your lives as we look ahead to the great feast of Pentecost. In this mailing you have the latest updates in our ongoing response to the impact of the pandemic. It can be a twisting kaleidoscope for sure, replete with uncertainty, but there are tangible positive trends in our nation, state and communities. New infections are much lower, and more people have received the vaccine, and/or continue to utilize the safety protocols. Many venues have reopened and are fully engaged. In response to the current landscape we have adapted our protocols for Mass and ministries. This being said, we all know that the virus is not dead, and therefore, it remains wise to err on the side of safety and the common good. It is everyone’s hope that the virus will be suppressed further, and that we will not be sidelined by a summer surge. Nonetheless, we are loosening the protocols and “taking down the ropes” as some have urged me to do months ago. I thank the leadership of our diocese who have contributed to these updates for our protocols. Of course, there is not total agreement on all of the items, but there is substantial consensus over the steps that we are taking at this time.
The Dispensation from Sunday Mass will end on the Feast of Corpus Christ, Saturday and Sunday, June 5/6. The Sunday obligation will be restored on this great feast when we can satisfy our hunger for the Bread of Life, in Word and Sacrament with the reception of Holy Communion. Keep in mind that the Church always dispenses from the Sunday obligation when any of the faithful are confronting serious health concerns. Therefore, someone can validly make the decision to attend Mass during the week, if able, and to participate in the Mass on the Lord’s Day through live streaming.
May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz
Bishop of Jackson
Dear St Jude parishioners:
The Diocese of Jackson issued revised protocols for our parishes last week. Starting the week of May 24 and going forward, these are the protocols that will be in place at St Jude for Mass based upon the on-going reality of the pandemic:
We want to thank all of you for your efforts in helping keep all of us safe at St Jude during the pandemic. We acknowledge that all of us are very weary of dealing with the pandemic. However, we acknowledge that this still is not the time to let our guard down completely. We will continue to monitor the situation and will issue modified guidelines when the reality of the pandemic changes. Blessings to all of you during these challenging times.
Father Lincoln Dall
Pastor
Dear Priests, Deacons, Lay Ecclesial Ministers, and Bookkeepers:
In light of the current surge of COVID-19 cases, we are updating our restrictions for church
gatherings. Please do everything you possibly can to enforce our safety protocols currently in place. We cannot stress enough the importance of these protocols being followed completely. We do not want to add to the burden of our already overwhelmed health care system. These heroes need our prayers, our cooperation, and our diligence every day.
Our simple sacrifices now will hopefully enable us to have in person Christmas Masses.
To be transparent, we will be monitoring the situation closely and if protocols are not being followed and numbers of cases continue to spiral upward, we will be forced to suspend in person Masses again.
Effectively immediately:
-All church gatherings other than Masses are suspended until further notice.
-All protocols currently in place for Masses must be strictly enforced.
-Social-Distance church capacity numbers must be kept. Flocknote has an online reservation feature that you may implement for Mass reservations.
-Weddings, if scheduled, must be small and all present must wear a mask. This includes entire
wedding party, priest or deacon, photographer, coordinator and guests.
-Funerals must be small and graveside only.
-Sacraments such as baptisms and confirmations if possible should be delayed until after the Baptism of the Lord in January.
-Guadalupe celebrations outside of a Mass for the Feast on Saturday, Dec. 12 are cancelled.
-You may incorporate the Collect of the Feast as the closing prayer for the Intercessions at the Sunday Mass, but the Sunday Mass must be for Advent.
Attached we have the Prayer of his Holiness Pope Francis to Mary for protection during the pandemic both in English and Spanish. It is a beautiful prayer that we can share with our parishioners. This is a very challenging time we live in. I for one am grateful to be able to continue to celebrate Mass with my parishioners at St Jude.
Blessings to all of you.
Father Lincoln Dall
Vicar General
The letter below was sent to each parish from Mary Woodward, Chancellor, and Fr. Lincoln Dall, Vicar General. While the letter was sent to parish leaders, the information is pertinant to ALL parishioners.
Dear Pastors, LEMs, Associates, Deacons and Parish Leadership:
The Season of Advent is fast approaching. This beautiful season, rich in complex themes of joyful anticipation, penitence, longing, and hope begins our Church’s liturgical year and gives us an opportunity to examine our consciences in the sure hope of Christ’s coming.
This past year has been filled with tremendous loss, grief, anxiety, hurt, unrest and fear. Advent gives us an opportunity to focus on the calm and peace that this quiet anticipation tempered with a penitent heart will lead us to Emmanuel – God With Us.
The beauty of Advent is found in the holy longing for an encounter with Emmanuel and this can only be achieved by healing broken bridges and broken hearts. This healing comes through our witness as pastors and parish leaders to service and sacrifice on behalf of our people.
In our Priests’ Council last week, we discussed the current diocesan liturgical directives and protective measures the directives and protective measures the diocese has in place because of COVID-19. The most up to date version is attached.
We want to reiterate that all of these directives and measures are still in place and apply to all Masses, Holy Days, weddings, funerals, quinceañeras, in any language in any place. There has been no loosening of these restriction in our churches regardless of local civic ordinances.
Medical experts have emphasized that the sooner we all take on the responsibility of safeguarding ourselves by wearing masks properly, socially distancing at indoor and outdoor events, avoiding large indoor gatherings, washing hands and sanitizing frequently touched surfaces, we will protect others and help lower transmission. We all must do our part in service to the common good.
As pastors and parish leaders we have a profound responsibility to lead, guide, nurture and protect our flock. We do not need to let situations occur which place people at risk of contracting a deadly virus.
Unfortunately, we have seen examples contrary to the directives on parish Facebook pages with churches packed for weddings and people not wearing masks. We must remain vigilant, especially as numbers continue to rise. If we act responsibly and lead by example our people will follow. We must be witnesses to the fact that this virus is very real and deadly.
By our witness we can instill in our parishioners that wearing a mask and social distancing is an act of love and sacrifice. Wearing a mask and social distancing is an act of service. Wearing a mask and social distancing is pro-life.
Through our witness, we can soften the disappointment when this year’s Immaculate Conception, Guadalupe and Christmas celebrations must be minimal and follow the COVID safety established numbers for inside our churches and parish halls. Socially distanced outdoor processions with masks for all involved are permissible.
Yes, we are all incredibly tired of these restrictions, but we must journey on knowing that each time we sacrifice a little, we are helping protect someone else and that we are not adding stress to our exhausted health-care workers. Imagine how tired they are. We must be in solidarity with them and support them by doing the simple responsible things such as wearing a mask, staying six feet apart, washing our hands and sanitizing our pews. It is the least we can do out of respect for the battle they wage every second of every day.
These are not normal times, and we should not try to create a sense of normalcy. Doing so diminishes the great loss so many have suffered.
Out of respect for the 250,000+ in our country who have died from this virus, out of respect for their devastated families, and out of respect for first responders and health care workers beyond exhaustion, we must sacrifice large weddings and large indoor gatherings. We must serve them and one another in love by wearing masks and social distancing.
As we approach Advent, that great season of holy longing and the beginning of a new liturgical year, let us imagine ourselves as the early Christians in the darkness of the catacombs where solace and safety from an evil scourge were sought; having the great faith and hope that one day soon they would be able to freely live as a eucharistic worshipping community in the light.
That day indeed will come again for us, but until then, let us be loving witnesses of service and sacrifice for our flock to confidently follow in faith. Thank you for your commitment and dedication. Let us pray for one another in this season of hope and anticipation.
Exerpts from UPDATED DIOCESAN DIRECTIVES - Updated November 17, 2020
UPDATED DIOCESAN DIRECTIVES
Updated November 17, 2020
GENERAL
- Bishop Kopacz continues to dispense the faithful from the Sunday Obligation to participate in Mass until further notice.
- Protocols you are using for weekday and Sunday Masses also apply to all other liturgies and rites such as Baptisms, First Communions, Confirmations, Weddings, Funerals, Quinceañeras, Guadalupe, Christmas etc.
- Masks are required to be worn properly by all over the age of two;
- Social Distancing is required – all must be six feet apart (if they live in same household, they may sit in same pew);
- Each parish should have a maximum capacity number and should stick to that number. Add a Mass if necessary – do not overcrowd churches!
- Pews and restrooms must be sanitized after each celebration;
- Hand sanitizer and masks should be made available to those who don’t have them;
- Group photos should be socially distanced, and masks should be worn;
- No receptions should be held after or before the celebration;
- Rehearsal dinners should not be held on parish property. Clergy should be cautious in attending such events.
- Social distancing at parish gatherings other than liturgies, such as processions, Knights of Columbus, ladies club, AA groups, adult Bible study group, etc., should follow the same requirements we have in place for liturgies.
- Outdoor gatherings in lieu of large indoor gatherings are encouraged, especially in locations with smaller parish centers
- Home Masses: At this time, Masses may not be celebrated in private homes or properties of parishioners. This places everyone at risk.
- Holy Communion is still to be distributed in the hand only.
- Choir and Ensemble singing and practices are suspended until further notice.
- Instrumental processions instead of hymns may be used, especially at the distribution of communion and the recessional;
- Incorporating the entrance and communion antiphons by the cantor is highly encouraged.
- Live-streaming of Mass may continue. Any music broadcast that is not in the public domain must have a copyright license and must be reported to the copyright holder. There is a waiver for broadcasting Scripture until the end of the year, so no copyright license is needed for broadcasting the readings at this time.
- Live-streaming to overflow crowds in parish centers or gyms on parish campuses though not ideal for participation will be allowed during this time.
- Overnight events are suspended until further notice.
- Long trips or mission trips for parish groups are suspended until further notice.
ADVENT PENANCE SERVICES
- Advent Penance Services should be small and not involve multiple priests traveling to different parishes to assist in these. An appropriate alternative would be to have several opportunities for the sacrament of reconciliation throughout the Advent season.
- Perhaps adoration could be incorporated as a part of these multiple offerings.
Stay safe and be vigilant! Take care of your flocks.
Come, Lord Jesus, come!
Bishop Kopacz has given his approval to resume the public celebration of Mass effective May 30th. An overview of Bishop Kopacz’s directives for resuming public Masses are outlined below, along with how they will be implemented at St. Jude.
Bishop Kopacz’s dispensation for the faithful from the Sunday Obligation to participate in Mass remains in effect until further notice. We will continue to live stream our Masses, and spiritual communion is encouraged for anyone that is unable to attend Mass. The dispensation also allows people to attend Mass on weekdays instead of the weekend which lessens the logistical challenges on the weekends.
Anyone who is sick or has been exposed to someone that is sick should not return for Masses at this time. Those that are over the age of 65-years or who have existing medical conditions that make them vulnerable should continue to shelter in place. Also, anyone who is concerned about the possibility of contracting the virus by returning to church may, in good conscience, remain at home and observe the Lord’s Day.
Proper social distancing guidelines will be followed. We will limit attendance at any one Mass to the number of people that we can properly seat. Face coverings are mandated for everyone above the age of two (2) years attending Mass.
1. Mass Schedule:
2. Reservations for Mass: To plan for our weekly Masses, we must to know how many people will attend. Those that make a reservation will be seated. Attendees without a reservation will be seated only if there are any vacant seats. Copy and paste the link to make your reservation: https://signup.com/go/vyZbHGK
As we work through the kinks of the first few weeks of the return to Mass, we ask that everyone plan to only come to one Mass per week. Hopefully we will be able to change this soon.
3. Seating Plan: Every-other pew will be blocked off to allow an empty pew between each row. Families who live under there same roof may sit together as a family unit. Everyone will be seated by an usher. You may not be able to sit where you normally sit, but we will try to accommodate special requests when we are able.
4. Entering the Church: Please arrive 10-15 minutes earlier than you normally do. We ask that you pay attention to the tape lines on the ground to maintain appropriate distance from others as you approach the church. Check-in with the greeter and get a spray of hand sanitizer. As much as we would all love to stop and visit, we cannot do that at this time. Please continue on to your seat as directed by the usher. Everyone must keep moving for appropriate spacing. There will not be holy water in the fonts.
5. Music and Readings: There will be no choir at any of the Masses but we will have a solo singer. Music will be simplified. It has been shown that singing projects viral droplets a great distance, so we ask that the gathered community refrain from singing. Everyone is encouraged to join in prayer with the soloist when any songs are sung. The Mass parts will be recited. All the hymnals have been removed from the pews for the time being. There will be no music or reading handouts or worship aids. Everyone is strongly encouraged to read the readings of the day before Mass or download one of the many apps available with the daily readings.
6. Offertory: The collection basket will not be passed. A basket will be placed on the offertory at the back of the church. You may drop in your offering at the beginning or end of Mass.
7. Restroom Access: Our restroom in the church is in a small confined space making social distancing difficult. It should only be used when absolutely necessary. We encourage everyone to use the restroom at home before coming to church. If a child 12-years of age or younger needs to go to the restroom, we ask that they be accompanied by a parent.
8. Processions: The various processions of Mass are rich with symbolism. However, at this time we are simplifying or eliminating processions. The entrance procession will not pass through the body of the Church. There will not be a procession of the gifts.
9. Distribution of Holy Communion: Communion will only be offered under the species of the Precious Body of Christ. Bishop Kopacz has directed all of the faithful in the Diocese of Jackson to receive in the hand. The use of gloves to receive communion is not appropriate. Please bring your own sanitizer so that you can sanitize your hands while you are in your pew before receiving communion.
10. After Mass: When Mass has ended, ushers will direct the faithful out of the church. Please avoid congregating in the aisles and in the parking lot. We must follow the social distancing protocol!! We must clean the pews and other surfaces touched after each Mass. We will be calling on volunteers to assist.
11. Other Things to Consider: The cry room will be closed and unavailable during Mass.
There should be no physical contact during the exchange of the Sign of Peace. A wave, nod or head bow is appropriate.
The air conditioner will be set so that the fan is blowing all of the time to help keep the air circulated. If you tend to be cold-natured, you might want to bring a sweater or jacket.
If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact the office. After this first weekend, we will review our procedures and make adjustments as necessary. Thank you for your attention to these notices. We very much look forward to seeing everyone soon!