Dear Parishioners of St. Thomas the Apostle Church,
The priests recently received a communication from Bishop Warfel relaxing some of the restrictions that have been placed within the liturgy and other parish gatherings.  Some restrictions continue.  The good news is that circumstances within our state and city have improved significantly with the roll-out of the vaccines.  Bishop Warfel has asked that each parish follow the directives of their local county health department.
Thus, we are lifting the social distancing limitations as of this weekend (May 1-2).  There will no longer be chairs in the gathering space as there should be sufficient space within the church for the assembly to gather.  However, we are still encouraging the usage of masks.  I simply ask that you continue to follow my direction and the direction of our ushers at Mass.
We will move in intermittent steps to return to a greater sense of "normalcy".  Some of the liturgical guidelines which will be implemented are:

  *  Plate 1 minister will ensure that the assigned Proclaimers and Eucharistic Ministers are present, finding someone to fill-in if necessary.
   *  The Processions will have a Cross-Bearer and the entrance procession will include the Proclaimers.
   *  Distribution of Holy Communion in the hand continues to be strongly encouraged.  There will be no common Cup for the distribution of the Precious Blood.
   *  Currently, there will be no physical exchange of the sign of peace.
   *  Collection baskets are not to be passed (we will continue with the current practice).
   *  Priests, Deacons and Eucharistic Ministers will continue to wear masks during the distribution of Holy Communion.
   *  There will be 4 stations in the center aisle for distribution of Holy Communion (2 in front and 2 in back).
   *  Proper sanitization of frequently touched services will continue.

Again, if a person is sick or their health is compromised, it is best to stay home.  Bishop Warfel has continued with his dispensation of the obligation to attend Sunday Mass and Holy Days.  If you are healthy, Bishop Warfel strongly encourages your attendance (as do I).  The Saturday evening Mass will continue to be live-streamed and recorded.  
At this point, we are still not serving food at parish functions.  We will continue to assess the situation in the months ahead.
Once again, I thank you for your cooperation through the last several months.  It has helped our parish to continue to flourish during these challenging times.  I am grateful for all of you.  Thank you for your continued support.  It is still a joy to serve as your pastor.
Let's stay alive in Christ,
Father Steve Zabrocki, Pastor

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