Thank you for your patience, bravery in adjusting to measures put in place for our safety and for your prayers and stewardship during this difficult time.
In line with the guidelines in Bishop Michael Olson's pastoral letter for the diocese of Fort Worth, we will return to our regular Mass schedules this weekend, May 2/3, 2020.
As we return to public celebration of the Eucharist, please note the safety protocols required in Bishop's Pastoral Letter from each of us in the spirit of Christian charity to keep everyone protected and from unconsciously spreading the COVID-19 pandemic.
A few of such safety protocols include:
A - Wearing mask or scarf coverings over mouth and nose. Those who have personal reasons not to wear mask or scarf are encouraged to stay home or remain in their car in the parking lot.
B- Keeping 6ft social distancing. Please be guided by the signs on the pews in the church or sitting arrangements in the hall.
C - Family members can sit together as they often do, but should try to use their discretion to sit family members as the pews are already marked out for the 6ft social distancing.
D - Collection baskets will be at the entrance of the church for people to drop their Sunday collection or charitable donations for stewardship.
E - Reception of Holy Communion will only be by hand. No reception on the tongue, please.
F - Use hand sanitizer located in the foyer to sanitize your hands and those of your little kids.
G - There's still no obligation to attend Sunday Mass. So, please try to stay home if you are sick or exhibit COVID-19 Symptoms.
H - Our elderly members, those with pre-existing conditions and over 60 years are encouraged to stay home, so as to not expose themselves to health complications. Should they choose to attend Mass, they are encouraged to attend Saturday Vigil Mass.
I- The parish hall may be used during this period as an alternative to accommodate more worshippers in line with the 25% of facility capacity, especially for 11.00 a.m. and 1.00 p.m. Masses in Graham.
J - The parish needs volunteers to help as ushers to welcome and guide people to sit down and help wipe the church in between Masses.
K - Side exit doors should be used after Mass to avoid crowding as people leave the church after Mass.
L - Ministers of the Eucharist should sanitize their hands before distributing the Communion.
M - Those who remain in the parking lots will be given the Eucharist at a designated place in the parking lot with 6ft social distancing.
N – Sunday Mass at 11:00 a.m. may be the only Mass to be live-streamed.
We expect charitable response and compliance to these guidelines. Remember, the community strife in difficult times when members care for each other and the community itself. Anyone who has issues with the guidelines should please call the parish office for clarification. Thank you and God bless you for your anticipated cooperation.
Fr. Eugene Nyong
Pastor.