REGARDING CONTAGIOUS DISEASES such as the flu and the Coronavirus

• If you are experiencing any symptoms—please exercise your best judgment about attending Mass or parish events
• If you are sick, please stay home and know that you are not obligated to attend Mass when you are ill.
• If you are reluctant to shake hands during the sign of peace—you are not required to do this
• the Bishop has not issued a diocesan-wide mandate to cease the use of the Communion Cup or the Sign of Peace and, as of this time, is leaving this decision up to each pastor
• as of this time, I see no need to suspend the use of the Communion Cup or the Sign of Peace and leave it up to the discretion of each parishioner to choose whether or not to receive from the Cup or shake another’s hand during the Sign of Peace
• encourage everyone to be vigilant with
  • the washing of hands and a regular basis
  • covering your mouth with your inner elbow coughing or sneezing
  • not sharing the flu or cold with others