With the widespread vaccination of Massachusetts residents, Governor Baker has announced the rescinding of gathering and masking requirements and the lifting of sector specific standards for places of worship.

In response to the Governor’s actions, Bishop McManus has issued a pastoral letter whereby he restores the obligation to take part in Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation. 

Read Bishop McManus' return to church (5-24-21) letter here.

POST-PANDEMIC GUIDELINES

Gatherings in Church 

• With the lifting of occupancy restrictions, parishes may return to full occupancy of churches.
• Masks and Social Distancing Masks are no longer required of all parishioners. However, per CDC guidelines, nonvaccinated persons, including minors, are still encouraged to wear masks and maintain social distancing. Sacred Heart will reserve the front pews on the left side of the Church for those needing to maintain 6' social distance and for those wishing to  continue a social distance.
• Hand sanitizer will be available at all entrances and in the center aisle to be used prior to Communion.

Gatherings in the Parish Hall and Non-liturgical Spaces

• All limitations concerning the size of gatherings in nonliturgical spaces have also been lifted.

Liturgical Changes will be implemented slowly

• The singing of hymns and acclamations may be restored. The re-institution of choirs or multiple cantors will be permissable in September 2021.
• The Distribution of Holy Communion Holy Communion may be distributed in the customary, prepandemic manner.

The Sacrament of Penance 
The use of traditional confessionals and “rooms of reconciliation” may be resumed. Penitents should be invited to wear masks for the immediate future.

Baptisms and Weddings
No special precautions are required at Baptisms and Weddings, and may return to pre-covid routines.