Update: March 12, 7:30pm
The Archdiocese has lifted the obligation to attend Sunday Mass for all faithful, until further notice. As always, we will continue to monitor the situation and respond accordingly.
From the Archdiocese of Indianapolis:
"Archbishop Thompson has decided that, effective immediately, and until further notice, the faithful of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis are hereby dispensed from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass. We are working on other questions surrounding the celebration of Sunday Mass. These too I hope to communicate to you tomorrow."
Original post: March 12, 11am
Dear parishioners, friends, and benefactors:
“Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.” ~ Matthew 14:27
Together, we take refuge in Jesus Christ in times of fear. We also do what is prudent and proactive. Given the ever changing situations with COVID-19 virus, pursuant to the most recent recommendations of the Office of Worship of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, and in consultation with local parish & school leadership, we will enact the following temporary measures, effective immediately for all Masses at Holy Family Catholic Church, (until instructed otherwise):
- Holy Water Fonts have been emptied.
- HF will not hold hands during the Our Father
- HF will omit the Sign of Peace
- HF will not offer the Precious Blood
(With one caveat, for those few members who are gluten intolerant or can only receive from the HF will have one (1) chalice available on the St Mary side. Please only use if you fall into this category.) - HF recommends you wash your hands before and after Mass.
- HF recommends not receiving the Host on the tongue.
- HF recommends maintaining additional distance and spreading out in the church.
- HF recommends limiting handshakes, hugs, or contact as ways of greeting one another. Smile and nod.
- HF recommends vulnerable adults and children with weakened or compromised immune systems to stay home from Mass. As your pastor, I hereby lift the Sunday Obligation for those in this specific category. (If you would go out to other non-medical events or locales, this does not presently apply to you!)
- If you are sick (fever, respiratory issues, related symptoms), stay home as an act of Charity to all.
As we know, the situation is constantly changing. We will continue to monitor the situation and adjust, as does the world.
Please pray for peace of mind, healing for the sick, and strength & wisdom for those who care for them.
St Joseph, Patron and Protector of the Church and the Family, Pray for us. ~ Fr. Jeremy M. Gries