Fr. Neil's Address on COVID-19 at All Masses March 15-16th

Fr. Neil's Address on COVID-19 at All Masses March 15-16th

Together, we are watching as more individuals and communities are impacted by the spread of COVID-19 (the “novel coronavirus”). Our thoughts are especially with those for whom this global public health issue is immediate and personal. 

Understandably there are many concerns and at times, fears surrounding this illness. We can rightly ask ourselves what can we do to address the concerns and fears.  Most importantly, all need to follow public health recommendations like regularly washing your hands and covering any cough. If you have flu symptoms, stay home and do not go to work. school or church where you risk exposing others. These follow an important basic rule with which you are familiar, "Do to others what you would have them do for you!" If you have flu symptoms, know that you do not need to attend Mass.

What can we do here at Mass to address concerns and fears? Let’s begin by recognizing the role of our faith and particularly the Mass to help us in our lives, especially in times of trial and doubt. Sunday Mass is a great gift encouraging us to experience God’s love and forming us as disciples of Jesus. Let’s address some things to help us in our current circumstances:

First, be kind and engaging of others. Even if we are not shaking hands in welcome or at the sign of peace, be good to others. Don’t ignore them. We need one another as we gather here.

Second, beginning this weekend we will temporarily not offer communion from the cup at Mass.

Third, we ask that all receive communion in the hand at this time. That is asking a change in practice for some, but see this as an act of charity on your behalf for others. It is difficult to distribute communion on the tongue without touching saliva. Of course, you can understand that this is a legitimate concern in the spread of communicable illness for others receiving communion.

That covers our response for now, if circumstances change, we locally and as an Archdiocese can and will take further measures. We hold in our hearts all those who have been touched by this disease. And more than ever in this time, we lean on each other to be a church of courage, responsibility, and hope.

Thanks for your cooperation and your care for others!

Father Neil Manternach
Pastor, Epiphany Parish,
Mason City, Iowa