Diocese of Grand Island Guidelines

February 15, 2021

Diocese of Grand Island
New COVID-19 Guidance for Parishes in the Diocese of Grand Island
(February 15, 2021)  

Beginning on Ash Wednesday, February 17, 2021, this guidance replaces previous instruction.

Bishop Hanefeldt is encouraging everyone to return to Sunday Mass on a regular basis, joining with their parish communities in the celebration of the Eucharistic liturgy.  Our Churches are every bit as safe as other public places. Come and receive the grace of the Sacraments with faith and confidence in the healing power of God at work in our worthy reception of the Body and Blood of Christ.

1. For the time being, the Sunday Obligation to attend Mass is still under dispensation for all the faithful. Nevertheless, Sunday remains the Lord’s Day and should be observed in some specific way, personally, in a spiritual manner that intentionally honors the Lord.  This might include watching the Sunday Mass via live-stream access, family prayer such as the rosary, or personal time to reflect upon the Sunday readings for Mass, or spiritual reading and devotional prayer. Other social activities should not be undertaken if one forgoes attending Sunday Mass.
2. Live-streaming the Sunday liturgy has been encouraged but never required. For those who are not able to attend Mass, this has provided an important connection to the parish church, and to one’s parish family. Where possible, it is encouraged that the practice of live streaming Sunday Mass would continue.
3. Directed Health Measures now permit 100% rated indoor occupancy for churches. Seating in every pew may now take place.  Limited seating to every other pew is now optional.
4. Wearing face masks is encouraged. For those parishes in cities and towns that have adopted a mandatory mask ordinance, these community ordinances should be observed in our parishes whenever we gather.
5. Hand sanitizer should continue to be available at all church entrances.
6. Holy Water may once again be made available in our baptismal and holy water fonts.

(One of the purposes of Holy Water is to receive blessing from the Lord and protection from the evil one. If people object to having Holy Water, they need not avail themselves of it.)

7. Hymnals and missalettes may again be used.
8. Collection baskets may once again be passed.
9. Altar servers may again assist in our liturgies.
10. Sanitizing pews, bathrooms, etc. after every Mass is now optional but encouraged.
11. However, the sign of peace should still be omitted.
12. The reception of the Precious Blood of Christ from the chalice should not take place.

Also:  According to the State of Nebraska Health and Human Service, there are no restrictions for Wedding and Funeral receptions. Food may again be “self-service” at parish gatherings.

Together, let us exhibit a warm spirit of hospitality, Christian community and renewed confidence in the Lord as we place all our trust in him!