In light of Governor Ducey’s June 29, 2020-Executive Order “Pausing of Arizona’s Reopening,” the following communication was developed to assist you in continuing to provide the essential service of offering Masses. We remain focused on the physical well-being of our parish staff, volunteers, parishioners, and the wider community.
The Executive Order restricting “organized public events” to less than 50 people does not apply to religious gatherings, but in the spirit of caution and cooperation, Bishop has given permission to pastors and parochial administrators to implement this where desired. Likewise, based upon parish circumstances and needs, pastors and administrators are given permission to suspend public Masses if the need arises in their own parish. The Chancery should be notified when a situation arises in a parish that makes this necessary. All parishes are directed to continue to implement our safety precautions already in place.
Our efforts to diminish the spread of COVID-19 remain an important part of our participation for the common good. For this reason, we thank you for your efforts thus far and seek to reinforce the practices you have implemented to reduce risk when celebrating Masses:
Again, these are important and effective precautionary measures meant to reduce risk, but the risk of coming in to contact with the virus remains. It is important for individuals and families to take personal responsibility to protect themselves.
Attached are the guidelines and directives that have been shared to date as a reminder and review. All other gatherings should be limited to no more than 10 people, and only for meetings where virtual gatherings are not possible.
Be Healthy–Be Smart–Be Holy
Our Lady of Guadalupe, patroness of the Diocese of Phoenix, pray for us. Jesus, the Divine Healer, we trust in You.
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