Holy Apostles Catholic Church

Reflections and guidelines as we prepare to return to public Masses in church:

 It has been quite a number of weeks since we had to discontinue the public use of our church and I know that many parishioners are looking forward to our return.  While our return to church is great news, it will be challenging and there are a few important things that I would like everyone to consider as we take this next step.  These guidelines are based upon the directives that we have received from the Diocese of Providence.

• While we can again gather for Mass beginning on Saturday, May 30, it will not look the same for some time. A smooth transition will depend on everyone being patient and cooperative with the process and the requirements.
• Because of the time required between Masses to sanitize and prepare for the next celebration, in addition to the Saturday evening Mass at 5 PM we will be offering only two Masses on Sunday morning at 8:30 and 11:00 AM for at least the first few weeks. As we get into a routine and work out the kinks, we will re-consider the schedule.
• Remember that the Bishop continues to dispense everyone in the Diocese from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass until further notice. With that in mind, parishioners who are advanced in age and/or have medical conditions that would make them more vulnerable, and individuals who for any reason are not yet comfortable to return are encouraged to remain at home and, if possible, join us through the live-stream Mass that we will continue to offer on FaceBook.  Anyone who is ill or has any symptoms whatsoever must not attend Mass under any circumstances.
• According to the state restrictions, our attendance at any Mass will be limited to 175 persons. In order to control the number and not have to turn people away at the door, those who wish to attend must make a reservation in advance for the particular Mass online at our website or by calling the office.  Beginning this Monday, there will be a link on our parish website to make the reservations.  Please arrive early to check in at the door before being seated.
• Due to the sanitizing requirements, restrooms will be available for emergency use only.
• For those who attend, face masks will be required while in the church and all will be expected to use the available hand sanitizer as they enter the church.
• Parishioners must maintain a 6-foot social distance between each other. Pews will be marked and closed off to facilitate the distancing.  Members of the same household will be able to sit together.  No one will be allowed to congregate for conversations before or after Mass. 
• Remember that it is not necessary to receive Holy Communion at Mass and one can legitimately remain in their seat. Those who wish to receive Holy Communion, will be directed to come forward in single file, maintaining the 6-foot distancing.  Communion will be distributed in the hand and parishioners should keep their mask on until they actually consume the Sacred Host.  Ministers of Holy Communion have been instructed about distribution of Holy Communion and proper hand sanitization in preparation for this service. 
• At the end of Mass, departure will be staggered in order to avoid crowding at the doors. Again, please be patient as the ushers direct the process and do not congregate inside or in the parking lot.
• After Mass, the commonly used areas, pews, restrooms, etc. will be cleaned and sanitized in preparation for the next Mass.
• Beginning on Monday, June 1, we will return to our schedule of morning weekday Mass at 8:30 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. The Mass will be celebrated in the main church and all of the above requirements for Sunday celebrations will apply. Reservations are not required.
• Starting June 1^st, office hours will begin again Monday – Friday from 9:00am to 1:00pm.

Again, thank you for your patience and understanding.  These are challenging times but we will get through it together.  Let us all join our prayers that God will continue to bless and guide us as we move forward.