What to expect as we return to publically celebrated mass

• Masks will be required before entering the church. Masks must remain in place throughout church will the only exception being while receiving communion.
• The elderly and those with health issues are urged to stay at home as well as those who are not feeling well.
• All parishioners are encouraged to take their temperature prior to coming to mass. Any parishioner with a temp of 100.4F or more should stay home.
• Adequate social distancing of 6ft will need to be observed
• Some pews will be marked “CLOSED” and taped off. Families/households will sit together and singles will need to maintain a 6ft distance.  (the tape arrows on the floor are for communion flow only)
• There will be no hymnals or missalettes available for the duration of the pandemic. If you have your own missal or hymnal you are encouraged to bring that to follow along.
• Offertory processions are suspended – Stationary collection baskets will be placed in the back of the church for offertory.
• The sign of peace is to be omitted for the time being.
• Communion
  • Each section of pews will receive communion separately
  • The first row in the pew section will move to the center isle to process forward (maintaining a 6ft distance) ,  There will be tape arrows on the floor to direct movement during communion)
  • when space permits the next row will process forward
  • After that section of pews has completed the next section will begin
  • When the side sections are to come forward the first pew will use the side isle to go to the back of the church & then down the center isle when space permits the second row of pews in that section can follow.
  • Distribution of Holy Communion will be in the hand only.
• After mass, the pews in the back should leave first, when there is adequate space, the next pews can exit.
• No gathering after mass
• The church will be sanitized after each mass
• Eucharistic adoration will resume on Wednesday May 27th
• Confession will continue to be by appointment only

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St Stephen Church 
44 Britton St
West Salem, OH 44287

Phone: 419-853-4946
email: info@ststephen.ws