Updated COVID-19 Guidelines

Dear all,

With the recent news from the CDC regarding masking of vaccinated individuals, the following changes will be implemented at St. Augustine’s with the support of the diocese. These changes will be fully implemented on Sunday May 30th.

• Masks will no longer be required for fully vaccinated individuals. We will also not require social distancing. However, those who have not been vaccinated, because of health reasons, personal decision or vaccine eligibility, will be required to wear masks and maintain their own social distance. We will not check vaccine cards nor will we designate special areas for non-vaccinated persons. But please be aware of children under 12 years of age who cannot be vaccinated. Your honor is their safety.
• Congregational singing will be allowed. Choir members who are fully vaccinated will not be required to wear a mask. If a choir member or congregant is not vaccinated, they must remain masked.
• Please maintain hand hygiene protocols.
• Communion will be given by hand by the priest and can be consumed at the time of reception. Communion will continue to be offered in individual paper cups as has been the practice during the time of higher-level restrictions. The altar rail will not be used at this time and hand hygiene should be practiced by all who receive. The common cup (wine) will not be shared.
• The offering plate will be passed.
• Youth/Children’s formation will follow the stat K-12th school and daycare guidelines regarding masks and distancing.
• We will maintain online worship and formation opportunities for those who feel safer gathering virtually.

In this transitional time, we must remain sensitive to the needs and continual pastoral concerns of those who worship with us. Some individuals may wish to remain masked for any number of reasons. Although we strongly suggest vaccination, we must remain aware of the issues that are a part of this transitional period, especially with older children who are just now eligible to receive.

Blessings+
Fr. Brad