*Holy Communion Updates: Some parishioners have begun using the communion rail for the reception of Holy Communion. Since this practice was never officially communicated, it has been awkward and disruptive for both communicants and priests. Our priests have decided this time of pandemic is not the time to introduce new practices (such as use of the communion rail), especially with cleaning, sanitation, and distancing guidelines. At this time, we request that all communicants refrain from using the communion rail. If we decide to make the communion rail an option in the future, this will be communicated ahead of time via the bulletin, Flocknote, and from the pulpit.  

Please know, this is not meant to be a punishment or rebuke of those who have been taking on this practice. Rather it is simply a desire for unity, consistency, and the health of our entire parish community. Similarly, we ask that after receiving Holy Communion, all communicants quietly and reverently leave the church and refrain from stopping at side altars, etc. We understand this is a difficulty for many: it is for your priests also. We encourage you to spend a few minutes in your car before driving away to thank God for the gift of the Eucharist and the ability to attend Mass. We thank you for your cooperation and continue to pray for and with you in the midst of these difficult times. 

 

A friendly reminder: The Archbishop strongly recommends that you receive Holy Communion in the hand. We apologize, knowing this is a burden for some of you. Some directives also indicate that the priest should sanitize his hands after every communion on the tongue. If you have discerned that you are still called to receive on the tongue, please observe the following protocol:

 

We ask that those wishing to receive on the tongue wait until all receiving on the hand have come forward. At that time, those wishing to receive on the tongue may come forward. This might also require you to step out of your pew to let those wishing to receive on the hand pass by. Thank you so much for your understanding and cooperation.

 

Confessions are available every week day 5:00-5:25 p.m. (Monday-Friday) and 3:00-4:15 p.m. (Saturday) at St. Michael's (Social Hall) in addition to 8:00-8:30 a.m (Saturday) at St. Mary's (Confessional, behind the screen).

 

The line for confession begins at the cone near the Social Hall doors. Please maintain a low voice in the confessional and leave the door open behind you. When forming a waiting line, please be attentive to the X-marks on the floor to maintain social distancing guidelines.