Bishop John Michael Botean’s updated guidance for Public Liturgical Services
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Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
The vaccines have finally enabled a little break in the clouds, so to speak, and allowed us to begin to emerge somewhat from our long year of isolation and fear. In this season of graduations, weddings and, in the USA, Memorial Day, it is important that we begin to repair the ruptures in our relationships that the pandemic has caused. People need to get together in person once again, and I believe it is fitting for the Church to facilitate that. Therefore, I am issuing the following guidelines and directives:- Except for the common abstinence observed on Wednesdays and Fridays, the faithful are dispensed from the observance of the Apostles’ Fast once again this year.
- To the extent permitted be local laws and health regulations, those who have been completely vaccinated are no longer required to wear a mask at the Liturgy. Those who have not are still expected to wear a mask that covers the nose and mouth.
- Clergy at the altar who have been completely vaccinated, likewise, need not wear masks except when they are among the people, such as while incensing or distributing Holy Communion or the antidoron. Again, this also is subject to local regulations.
- Social distancing measures are to be maintained, such as closing every other pew. However, most contact precautions, such as having people assigned to open doors or designating separate entrances and exits, are no longer necessary. Clergy are still expected to use hand sanitizer, especially before communion.
- Churches are to be well ventilated during gatherings, and surfaces must be kept clean and sanitized.
- The kissing of icons, crosses, relics, etc. is still forbidden, and holy water fonts are to remain empty.
- Provided distancing can be maintained, building capacity will be limited only by local regulations.
- The collection may be taken up by people using collection baskets with long handles. Passing baskets from person to person in the pews is still discouraged.
- For the time being, the dispensation from Sunday and holy day obligation will remain in effect. Nevertheless, now is the time to begin encouraging attendance for reasons other than fear of punishment!
- You may begin a cautious return to in-person meetings, coffee hours, and dinners, again maintaining social distancing.
- There are no restrictions on outdoor activities.
Yours in Christ-God,
Bishop John Michael Botean
