Resumption of Public Masses

Resumption of Public Masses — Phase One

5/6/2020

Bishop Carl Kemme

On Sunday, May 3rd, 2020, Bishop Carl Kemme announced his intention to resume public Masses, in phases, Beginning May 6. The announcement, which was released on the Diocese website, included:

A video recorded statement from Bishop Kemme,
The written content of his statement,
A Proposal For Resuming Mass in the Diocese of Wichita,
Guidelines for Resuming Mass in the Diocese of Wichita.

The May 3rd announcement, in its entirety, is Linked HERE. It is noted that with his announcement Bishop Kemme emphasized:

"... the current pandemic is far from over. Medical experts tell us that this health crisis remains a very serious threat to the lives of many people. Because of this, I want to urge all those in the high risk population and others who so choose to continue to use the general dispensation I am giving from the obligation to attend the Sunday celebration of the Mass, which continues indefinitely during this crisis. Please do not put yourself or others at risk by attending the Masses once they resume. This is my urgent appeal to all in our Catholic Community: use extraordinary caution and good judgment in determining if you should attend Mass. No mortal sin is committed if you decide that you and your family should not attend.

The Proposal and Guidelines have since been provided as a single PDF document that can be downloaded HERE. This document describes Phase One of Mass resumption, during the time frame of May 6 through May 20, 2020. The proposal allows individual pastors to start at a later date if more time is required for preparation.

The St. Francis - St. Ambrose parish office has tailored the guidelines for our specific purpose and facilities. Those guidelines are being mailed to all members of both parishes. They will also be posted on the parish website soon.

The COVID-19 crisis is a difficult period requiring many changes in the way we worship. We must remain flexible and patient in the days ahead.

"Put your gifts at the service of one another." 1 Peter 4:10

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