COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Precautions, Practices, and Resources
in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough
January 3, 2022
Today, Premier Doug Ford held a press conference and responded to what he called "a tsunami" of COVID-19 infections that threatens to overwhelm the healthcare system in Ontario. In response to the increasing number of cases of the Omicron variant, the province of Ontario is implementing new health precautions and restrictions. The measures will be in effect from Wednesday, January 5, 2022, at 12:01 a.m. for at least 21 days until January 26, 2022, The trends in public health and health system indicators will be considerations for the government's decision to extend or lift the new measures.
The measures that will directly impact places of worship include:
- Reducing social gathering limits to five people indoors and 10 people outdoors.
- Limiting capacity at organized public events to five people indoors.
- Requiring businesses and organizations (i.e. places of worship) to ensure employees work remotely unless the nature of their work requires them to be on-site.
- Limiting capacity at indoor weddings, funerals, and religious services, rites, and ceremonies to 50 percent capacity of the particular room. Outdoor services are limited to the number of people that can maintain 2 meters of physical distance. Social gatherings associated with these services must adhere to the social gathering limits.
- Closing indoor meeting and event spaces with limited exceptions but permitting outdoor spaces to remain open with restrictions.
In the Diocese of Peterborough, these provincial measures will be implemented in the following ways:
- Households attending the church must maintain a physical distance of 6 feet or 2 meters between each other. Attendance at the church is limited to fifty percent of the church's posted capacity.
- The clergy and the faithful must wear a face mask in the church.
- Congregational singing is strongly discouraged at this time.
- The processional and recessional will take place respectively from the sacristy to the sanctuary and from the sanctuary to the sacristy to avoid gatherings at the church doors.
- Parish Halls are closed for the time being. The exception to this closure is AA meetings, food banks, and other designated entities.
- The Diocesan and parish staff are working remotely as much as possible.
DISPENSATION FROM THE OBLIGATION TO ATTEND MASS AND LIVE-STREAMED MASSSES
Parishioners are reminded that the dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation continues. Please join in prayer with the Masses live-streamed from the Cathedral of St. Peter-in-Chains on the Diocesan YouTube channel.
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough is served by these Health Units:
Peterborough Public Health Unit
Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit
Hastings and Prince Edward Counties Health Unit
Durham Region Health Unit
North Bay–Parry Sound District Health Unit
Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit
HEALTH PRECAUTIONS
| WorshipSafe Plan |
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WORSHIP SAFE - Reopening Plan for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough, edits - August 15, 2020, July 7, 2020, June 25, 2020. (Original June 9 2020)
Worship Safe in Pictures and Points (A Summary)
Video - How to Worship Safely
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| COVID-19 Safety Plan - Required by the Ontario Government |
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Diocesan Pastoral Centre COVID-19 Safety Plan
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| Health Precautions |
ONGOING UPDATES FROM THE REOPENING PLANNING COMMITTEE FOR THE DIOCESE OF PETERBOROUGHGOVERNMENT OF ONTARIO FRAMEWORK FOR HEALTH MEASURES The Government of Ontario has a new framework for the description of COVID-19 health precautions. The Health Unit in each area will determine the level of risk and accordingly, the health precautions to be put in place. The Framework has five levels: Green – prevent, Yellow – protect, Orange – restrict, Red – control and Lockdown. A description of the five stages in the framework follows. It is the authority and responsibility of the local Health Unit to determine and monitor the stage for their regional jurisdiction.
SINGING AT MASS Permission is now given for the use of a single cantor at Mass.
For more information, see: COVID-19 Advice: Religious Services, Rites or Ceremonies, Ministry of Health, August, 2020.
PARISH BULLETINS AND OFFERTORY ENVELOPES Parishes may prepare paper parish bulletins effective immediately and plan a touchless way to make parish bulletins available to parishioners. Similarly, for the distribution of offertory envelopes, parishes will do so in a manner that avoids touching and the gathering of people around a table.
SUNDAY MISSALS AND MISSALETTES Parishes can order missals and/or missalettes for parishioners and plan a touchless way to deliver the missals/missalettes. If the parish orders missals/missalettes, follow the same guidelines as noted above for parish bulletins and offertory envelopes. Advise parishioners that paper items left in the church during the pandemic will be collected and put in the recycle bin. Parishioners can order the Living with Christ missalette through this weblink or by calling 1-514-523-6222.
SALE OF GOODS AT THE PARISHES Please do not host or hold events for the purpose of selling items such as but not limited to Christmas cards, calendars, Holy Land items, etc. Any such items not essential to the operation of our parishes should not be sold at this time.
PARISH HALLS, EVENTS, AND SOCIAL GATHERINGS Hold on gatherings and events In order to support provincial recommendations and provide increased protection for our community, Peterborough Public Health is advising that short-term events, such as craft shows, running races, and hobby shows, be suspended until further notice. These events tend to promote gathering and draw attendees from both near and far for non-essential purposes. Our request to suspend any approvals of these types of events is in line with O. Reg. 364/20, Schedule 1 Section 2 - (2) The person responsible for a business or organization that is open shall operate the business or organization in compliance with the advice, recommendations and instructions of public health officials, including any advice, recommendations or instructions on physical distancing, cleaning or disinfecting. Additionally, as we move into the holiday season, we will not be approving any applications for parades, unless they are modified to meet the Regulation. Source: Peterborough City and County Health Unit, November 9, 2020.
CANTOR PERMITTED AT WEDDINGS AND FUNERALS
The use of a cantor at funerals and weddings is permitted now, so that those liturgies may be celebrated with more solemnity. This will also allow a greater and more sensitive pastoral response to families as they gather for these liturgies. It is crucial that the musician and cantor should practice safe physical distancing from each other and from the congregation while carrying out their ministry. Since singing projects droplets into the air with greater force than speaking, the restriction on congregational singing remains in force. It would be advisable to announce that at funerals and weddings so that people are reminded that this restriction remains in place for the well-being and safety of all. No singing at daily Mass or Sunday Mass - only instrumental music that does not encourage singing. LITURGICAL FUNCTIONING OF DEACONS
Deacons will continue to refrain from ministry directly at the altar: that is, the deacon should not prepare the chalice or raise the chalice at the conclusion of the Eucharistic prayer. The deacon may proceed with other aspects of his liturgical ministry, i.e. proclaiming the Gospel, preaching when assigned, announcing invitations during the Mass, assisting in the distribution of Holy Communion. If it is the custom, the deacon may also do the general preparation of the altar after the Universal Prayer, provided he is at a sufficient physical distance from the priest.
FACE COVERINGS AND MASKS As of October 2, 2020, the Ontario Provincial Regulation mandates the wearing of face masks in all public places including places of worship. This provincial regulation applies to the Cathedral and all parishes of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough.
SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION
The Sacramental Preparation Committee is reviewing the sacramental preparation programs for the sacraments of Reconciliation, Eucharist, Confirmation, and Marriage. The committee members will be discussing these issues and providing options for the consideration of the Reopening Planning Committee. Contact your parish and click on the links below for more information about sacramental preparation for these sacraments:
Face Coverings / Face Masks, July 10, 2020, Updated September 28, 2020, July 16 2020, July 20, 2020, July 29, 2020
ONGOING UPDATES FROM THE REOPENING PLANNING COMMITTEE FOR THE DIOCESE OF PETERBOROUGHGOVERNMENT OF ONTARIO FRAMEWORK FOR HEALTH MEASURES The Government of Ontario has a new framework for the description of COVID-19 health precautions. The Health Unit in each area will determine the level of risk and accordingly, the health precautions to be put in place. The Framework has five levels: Green – prevent, Yellow – protect, Orange – restrict, Red – control and Lockdown. A description of the five stages in the framework follows. It is the authority and responsibility of the local Health Unit to determine and monitor the stage for their regional jurisdiction.
SINGING AT MASS Permission is now given for the use of a single cantor at Mass.
For more information, see: COVID-19 Advice: Religious Services, Rites or Ceremonies, Ministry of Health, August, 2020.
PARISH BULLETINS AND OFFERTORY ENVELOPES Parishes may prepare paper parish bulletins effective immediately and plan a touchless way to make parish bulletins available to parishioners. Similarly, for the distribution of offertory envelopes, parishes will do so in a manner that avoids touching and the gathering of people around a table.
SUNDAY MISSALS AND MISSALETTES Parishes can order missals and/or missalettes for parishioners and plan a touchless way to deliver the missals/missalettes. If the parish orders missals/missalettes, follow the same guidelines as noted above for parish bulletins and offertory envelopes. Advise parishioners that paper items left in the church during the pandemic will be collected and put in the recycle bin. Parishioners can order the Living with Christ missalette through this weblink or by calling 1-514-523-6222.
SALE OF GOODS AT THE PARISHES Please do not host or hold events for the purpose of selling items such as but not limited to Christmas cards, calendars, Holy Land items, etc. Any such items not essential to the operation of our parishes should not be sold at this time.
PARISH HALLS, EVENTS, AND SOCIAL GATHERINGS Hold on gatherings and events In order to support provincial recommendations and provide increased protection for our community, Peterborough Public Health is advising that short-term events, such as craft shows, running races, and hobby shows, be suspended until further notice. These events tend to promote gathering and draw attendees from both near and far for non-essential purposes. Our request to suspend any approvals of these types of events is in line with O. Reg. 364/20, Schedule 1 Section 2 - (2) The person responsible for a business or organization that is open shall operate the business or organization in compliance with the advice, recommendations and instructions of public health officials, including any advice, recommendations or instructions on physical distancing, cleaning or disinfecting. Additionally, as we move into the holiday season, we will not be approving any applications for parades, unless they are modified to meet the Regulation. Source: Peterborough City and County Health Unit, November 9, 2020.
CANTOR PERMITTED AT WEDDINGS AND FUNERALS
The use of a cantor at funerals and weddings is permitted now, so that those liturgies may be celebrated with more solemnity. This will also allow a greater and more sensitive pastoral response to families as they gather for these liturgies. It is crucial that the musician and cantor should practice safe physical distancing from each other and from the congregation while carrying out their ministry. Since singing projects droplets into the air with greater force than speaking, the restriction on congregational singing remains in force. It would be advisable to announce that at funerals and weddings so that people are reminded that this restriction remains in place for the well-being and safety of all. No singing at daily Mass or Sunday Mass - only instrumental music that does not encourage singing. LITURGICAL FUNCTIONING OF DEACONS
Deacons will continue to refrain from ministry directly at the altar: that is, the deacon should not prepare the chalice or raise the chalice at the conclusion of the Eucharistic prayer. The deacon may proceed with other aspects of his liturgical ministry, i.e. proclaiming the Gospel, preaching when assigned, announcing invitations during the Mass, assisting in the distribution of Holy Communion. If it is the custom, the deacon may also do the general preparation of the altar after the Universal Prayer, provided he is at a sufficient physical distance from the priest. FACE COVERINGS AND MASKS As of October 2, 2020, the Ontario Provincial Regulation mandates the wearing of face masks in all public places including places of worship. This provincial regulation applies to the Cathedral and all parishes of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough.
SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION
The Sacramental Preparation Committee is reviewing the sacramental preparation programs for the sacraments of Reconciliation, Eucharist, Confirmation, and Marriage. The committee members will be discussing these issues and providing options for the consideration of the Reopening Planning Committee. Contact your parish and click on the links below for more information about sacramental preparation for these sacraments:
RECORDED SUNDAY MASS IS ON YOUTUBE
Each week, the Sunday Mass celebrated at the Cathedral of St. Peter-in-Chains is taped and broadcast from the YouTube channel for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough. Click HERE for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough YouTube channel.
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| Mass on the Diocese of Peterborough YouTube Channel |
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RECORDED SUNDAY MASS IS ON YOUTUBE
Each week, the Sunday Mass celebrated at the Cathedral of St. Peter-in-Chains is taped and broadcast from the YouTube channel for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough. Click HERE for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough YouTube channel. |
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
| COVID-19 Vaccines |
RESOURCES ABOUT THE COVID-19 VACCINE
Statement from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith Clarification and Statement from the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops Letter from the Bishops of Alberta/Northwest Territories
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| Alerts about Cases and Outbreaks in Parishes and Missions |
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VISITATION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY PARISH IN CAMPBELLFORD A person attending the Daily Mass on Monday, January 10, 2022, has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. Please be informed and take the precautions necessary. Click MORE INFORMATION LINK.
ST. ANTHONY MISSION IN WOODVILLE Persons attending the Christmas Eve Mass at St. Anthony Mission in Woodville have reported they tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. Please be informed of this report and take the precautions necessary. Click MORE INFORMATION LINK.
ST. PETER THE APOSTLE PARISH IN PARRY SOUND A person at the 10:00 p.m. Mass on Christmas Eve at St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Parry Sound has reported a positive COVID-19 test result. Please be informed of this report and take the precautions necessary. Click MORE INFORMATION LINK.
ST. JOSEPH PARISH IN BOWMANVILLE Persons who attended Masses during Christmastime * at St. Joseph Parish in Bowmanville have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus and reported this matter to the Pastor. * Christmastime - December 24 Mass at 8 pm; December 25 Masses at 12 am and 10 am and December 26 Masses at 9 am and 11 am.
Please be informed of this report and take the precautions necessary. Click MORE INFORMATION LINK.
A person at the Funeral Mass at St. Joseph Parish in Bowmanville on Thursday December 3oth at 11:00 AM has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. Please be informed of this report and take the precautions necessary. Click MORE INFORMATION LINK.
ST. MARY OF THE ASSUMPTION PARISH IN HUNTSVILLE A person who attended the Funeral Mass at St. Mary of the Assumption Parish in Huntsville on Wednesday December 29th at 1:30 PM has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus and reported this matter to the Pastor. Please be informed of this report and take the precautions necessary. Click MORE INFORMATION LINK.
You've been exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19, now what?
ALERT - COVID-19 Outbreak at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Cardiff and St. John Vianney Mission in Highland Grove The Diocese was informed on April 23, 2021 that three parishioners who attended the parish in Cardiff and six parishioners who attended the mission in Highland Grove have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.
ALERT - COVID-19 Exposure at St. Mary Mission, Chandos Lake (Apsley) Peterborough Health Unit Letter, April 17, 2021
ALERT - COVID-19 Exposure at the Parish Office, St. Mary Parish Grafton There is no exposure at the Church or at its services. The exposure occurred in the Parish Office and is internal.
APRIL 13, 2021 - ST. MARY PARISH, LINDSAY
APRIL 9, 2021 - ST. MARY PARISH IN LINDSAY
For further and updated information, please consult the PARISH WEBSITE. |
| Notice - Cancellation of Masses |
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UPDATE - DAILY MASSES & THE MASSES THIS WEEKEND FOR THE FEAST OF THE BAPTISM OF OUR LORD CANCELLED - St. Luke Parish in Downeyville The Pastor at St. Luke Parish in Downeyville is experiencing the symptoms of the COVID-19 virus. The priest has sought medical attention and is following medical advice and the precautions & requirements of the Health Unit. Accordingly, there will be no Daily Masses at St. Luke Parish in Downeyville. This applies to the Daily Masses from January 3rd to 7th and the Masses on January 8th and 9th for the Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord.
DAILY MASSES CANCELLED THIS WEEK (JANUARY 3 TO 7) - St. Martin of Tours Parish in Ennismore The Pastor at St. Martin of Tours Parish in Ennismore is experiencing the symptoms of the COVID-19 virus. The priest is following medical guidance and the health precautions & requirements of the Health Unit. Accordingly, there will be no Daily Masses at St. Martin of Tours Parish in Ennismore. This applies to the Daily Masses next week.
MASSES CANCELLED AT NEW YEAR'S, ON THE WEEKEND AND NEXT WEEK - Sacred Heart Parish in Trout Creek and St. Augustine Mission in South River The Pastor at Sacred Heart Parish in Trout Creek & the St. Augustine Mission in South River is experiencing the symptoms of the virus. The priest is ill and following medical guidance. Accordingly, there will be no Masses at Sacred Heart Parish in Trout Creek and St. Augustine Mission over the New Year, this weekend and next week. This will include the Masses for the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God, World Day of Peace at New Year's on December 31st/January 1st, the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord on January 2nd, and the Daily Masses next week.
MASSES CANCELLED AT NEW YEAR'S, ON THE WEEKEND, NEXT WEEK AND JANUARY 8/9 - St. Peter the Apostle Parish, Parry Sound The Pastor at St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Parry Sound is a close contact of a person who tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. The priest is following medical guidance in accordance with Health Unit requirements and precautions. Accordingly, there will be no Masses at St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Parry Sound over the New Year and this weekend. This will include the Masses for the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God, World Day of Peace at New Year's on December 31st/January 1st, the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord on January 2nd, the daily Masses next week and the Masses for the Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord..
UPDATE - MASSES CANCELLED AT NEW YEAR'S, ON THE WEEKEND, DAILY MASSES & THE FEAST OF THE BAPTISM OF OUR LORD - St. John, Kirkfield and its Missions The Priest at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Kirkfield is experiencing virus symptoms. The priest is following medical guidance. Accordingly, there will be no Masses at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Kirkfield or its missions - St. Anthony Mission in Woodville, St. Margaret Mary Alocoque Mission in Coboconk, and Our Lady Help of Christians Mission, Victoria Road. This will include the Masses for the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God, World Day of Peace at New Year's on January 1st, and the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord on January 2nd, the Daily Masses, and the Masses for the Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord.
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| List of Parishes and Missions by Health Unit Regions |
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Peterborough Public Health Unit Cathedral of St. Peter-in-Chains Immaculate Conception Parish Our Lady of Assumption, Otonabee St. John the Evangelist, Keene St. Anne Parish St. Alphonsus Liguori Parish Sacred Heart Parish St. John the Baptist Parish St. Joseph Parish, Douro St. Thomas More Parish, Millbrook St. Martin of Tours Parish, Ennismore St. Paul Parish, Norwood Our Lady of Mount Carmel Mission, Havelock St. Paul the Apostle Parish, Lakefield St. Jean de Brebeuf Mission, Buckhorn Our Lady of Good Counsel Mission, Young’s Point St. Mary of the Purification Mission, Chandos Lake Diocesan Pastoral Centre
Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit St. Mary Parish, Lindsay Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Cardiff St. John Vianney Mission, Highland Grove Our Lady of Mercy Parish, Port Hope Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, Hastings Sacred Heart Mission, Harwood Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (St. Mary) Parish, Grafton Our Lady Queen of Peace, Bobcaygeon / St. Aloysius, Fenelon Falls St. John Parish, Kirkfield St. Margaret Mary Mission, Coboconk Our Lady Help of Christians Mission, Kirkfield St. Anthony Mission, Woodville St. Luke Parish, Downeyville St. Michael Parish, Cobourg St. Patrick Parish, Kinmount Our Lady of Fatima Mission, Minden Holy Angels Parish, Brighton Korean Martyrs, Brighton St. Jerome Mission, Warkworth Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish, Campbellford
Hastings and Prince Edward Counties Health Unit St. Alphonsus Parish, Wooler
Durham Region Health Unit St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Newcastle St. Joseph Parish, Bowmanville St. Therese Parish, Courtice St. Bernadette Mission, Nestleton
North Bay–Parry Sound District Health Unit St. Joseph Parish, Powassan St. John Mission, Nipissing St. Patrick Parish, Kearney Holy Spirit Mission, Burk’s Falls St. Peter the Apostle Parish, Parry Sound Mission of St. Peter, (Killbear) Nobel Sacred Heart Parish, Trout Creek St. Augustine Mission, South River St. Mary Mission, Port Loring Holy Family Parish, Britt St. Therese Mission, Pointe au Baril St. Michael Mission, Rosseau
Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit Our Lady of Mercy Parish, Honey Harbour St. John the Baptist Mission, Port Severen St. Joseph Parish, Bracebridge St. John the Baptist Mission, Minett St. Mary Parish, Huntsville St. Kateri Tekakwitha Mission, Baysville Mission of St. Mary of the Assumption, Dwight St. Paul Parish, Gravenhurst St. James the Great Parish, Mactier St. Anne Mission, Port Carling |
| Employees |
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Employees of the Parishes and the Diocese will work from home as much as possible in consultation with their supervisor. Employees in consultation with their supervisors will continue to work from home as much as possible until Tuesday, April 6, 2021 - at which the return of the staff to the regular work site is expected and will be confirmed.
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ARCHIVED UPDATES
| January 3, 2022 |
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January 3, 2022
Today, Premier Doug Ford held a press conference and responded to what he called "a tsunami" of COVID-19 infections that threatens to overwhelm the healthcare system in Ontario. In response to the increasing number of cases of the Omicron variant, the province of Ontario is implementing new health precautions and restrictions. The measures will be in effect from Wednesday, January 5, 2022, at 12:01 a.m. for at least 21 days until January 26, 2022, The trends in public health and health system indicators will be considerations for the government's decision to extend or lift the new measures.
The measures that will directly impact places of worship include:
In the Diocese of Peterborough, these provincial measures will be implemented in the following ways:
It is hoped that these new measures will curtail or significantly mitigate the current surge of the Omicron variant and the COVID-19 virus.
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| December 22, 2021 |
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PARISH MEETINGS Parish meetings are permitted observing all the pandemic health precautions. However, virtual meetings are highly recommended at this time.
PARISH HALLS Parish meetings in halls or other indoor spaces are permitted. Attendance may not exceed 50% of meeting space capacity. Participants must present a Vaccine Certificate, be masked, and physically distanced – 2 metres (6 ft.) between those not from the same household. Contact tracing remains a best practice.
Note - An exemption from the Vaccine Certificate requirement is in place for programs like Alcoholics or Narcotics Anonymous or food distribution to the poor. Vaccination remains a prudent health precaution for the recipients and volunteers at these programs.
SERVING FOOD AND/OR BEVERAGES Serving food and/or beverages is discouraged at this time. If it happens, please observe the following protocols:
CONGREGATIONAL SINGING Congregational singing is discouraged at this time. Hymnals do not need to be removed from the pews.
CHOIRS AND MUSICIANS Choirs and liturgical musicians are permitted if at least 6 feet or 2 meters of distance between choir members from different households can be maintained. Face masks may be removed when singing and must be put in place once the hymn is concluded.
If it is not possible to ensure at least 6 feet (2 metres) between choir members from different households, it is recommended that a single cantor and a single musician provide the music ministry at this time.
CHURCH VENTILATION If possible given weather conditions, please open windows and turn on fan circulation in the church. |
| December 16, 2021 |
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December 16, 2021
PRIEST'S ANNOUNCEMENT BEFORE THE MASSES ON THE FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT Good morning/evening! The COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect us and with the Delta and Omicron variants, we need to be vigilant and care for one another. I know that people are growing weary of the health precautions, but it is important for us to follow them and not let our guard down. We must exercise caution and care for all those who gather with us in the church. Please wear a face mask that covers your nose, mouth, and chin. When you wear a face mask, you communicate a gesture of care for one another, and that charity is good. Please keep 2 metres of distance between households, sanitize your hands, and stay home if you have any symptoms of illness. The Mass continues to be livestreamed on the YouTube channel for the Diocese if you need to stay home. These health precautions support the churches staying open safely and are a concrete expression of our concern for others. I am urging you to follow them, especially as we face uncertain times with the new variant. Thank you.
PRAYER INTENTION For the People of God during this pandemic, we ask for God's healing and comfort. May our efforts and care to bring this pandemic to an end and restore good health globally. We pray to the Lord. Response: Lord, hear our prayer. Contact Information for Clergy and Staff Working Remotely A few days ago, Dr. Kieran Moore, Medical Officer for the province of Ontario, made the following statement, "Just as I am asking individuals to continue practicing public health measures and get vaccinated, I’m also asking businesses and organizations to remain diligent and vigilant, I am asking that employers ask their employees to work from home whenever possible."
Since then, twenty Medical Officers of Health in the province have issued Orders pertaining to workers working remotely where possible.
Accordingly, Most Reverend Bishop Miehm has issued the following guideline for the clergy and lay staff of the Diocese.
To contact clergy or lay staff working remotely, please access the email directory links provided below.
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| November 22, 2021 |
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COVID-19 UPDATE - Choirs and Congregational Singing
November 22, 2021
Good news!
Choirs and congregational singing in our parishes and missions may resume while observing the following health safeguards and requirements:
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| October 28, 2021 |
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ATTENDANCE AT MASS DOES NOT REQUIRE A VACCINE CERTIFICATEThe province of Ontario announced that it is dropping the attendance limits for venues that are requiring a vaccine certificate to enter the premises. The province indicated that other venues such as places of worship may also drop their attendance limits if they ask for the Vaccine Certificate upon entry. The parishes and missions of the Diocese of Peterborough will NOT be requesting vaccine certificates to attend Mass or other religious services. The Parishes and Missions will continue to operate with the attendance limits in place - that is - 6 feet between different households. All other health precautions related to the pandemic will be observed. FUNERALSWhile the province is allowing attendance limits to be lifted if a Vaccine Certificate is required for entry, parishes in the Diocese of Peterborough have been directed by the Bishop to maintain current attendance limits and NOT to require Vaccine Certificates. This also applies to the celebration of funerals at parishes and missions. The Diocese of Peterborough will not require people attending a funeral in the Diocese to present a Vaccine Certificate, and the current attendance limits and health precautions will remain in place. Funeral receptions will NOT be held in the Parish Hall at this time with the intent to safeguard the good health of those coming from near and far to be present at funeral celebrations. PARISH HALLSWHEN A VACCINE CERTIFICATE IS REQUIRED
* WHEN A VACCINE CERTIFICATE IS NOT REQUIRED
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| October 21, 2021 |
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Funeral receptions will not be hosted in Parish Halls at this time.
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| September 28, 2021 |
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September 28, 2021
SERVING FOOD
Food can be served at an event. People in line for food need to wear a face mask and physically distance themselves from one another. Hands should be sanitized before and after touching any communal instruments. Limiting the number of servers and providing individually served portions will decrease the possibility to spread infection.
VACCINE CERTIFICATE OR OTHER OPTIONS
A "Vaccine Certificate" is required for meetings and events held in the Parish Hall. These are the three options that satisfy the requirement for a Vaccine Certificate.
* MEDICAL EXEMPTION
Individuals who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical exemptions will be permitted entry with a doctor’s note until recognized medical exemptions can be integrated as part of a digital vaccine certificate.
CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 11
Children under the age of 11 cannot receive the COVID-19 vaccine yet and therefore, are not required to have a Vaccine Certificate.
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| September 21, 2021 |
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PARISH HALLS
Parish Halls can be opened for meetings/events observing the following points listed below:
VACCINE CERTIFICATE The province of Ontario is instituting a Vaccine Certificate as a temporary measure during the pandemic. The Vaccine Certificate is not required for places of worship where a religious celebration is taking place. However, the Vaccine Certificate is required in “meeting and event spaces.” A Vaccine Certificate or a medical exemption* or a negative rapid antigen COVID-19 test from no more than 48 hours before the meeting or event held in a parish hall is required. The Vaccine Certificate will include both receipts for the two doses of the vaccine and photo identification. The Vaccine Certificate requirement becomes effective on Wednesday, September 22nd. Parish halls will not be hosting funeral or wedding receptions at this time. However, Parish Halls may be used or rented by groups that have previously used them. Information about the Vaccine Certificate from the ON Government *Individuals who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical exemptions will be permitted entry with a doctor’s note until recognized medical exemptions can be integrated as part of a digital vaccine certificate. Children who are 11 years of age and younger and unable to be vaccinated will also be exempted from the Vaccine Certificate requirement. For the period between September 22 and October 12, 2021, people attending wedding or funeral receptions at meeting or event spaces will be able to provide a negative rapid antigen COVID-19 test from no more than 48 hours before the event as an alternative to proof of vaccination. These rapid antigen tests would need to be privately purchased. The Vaccine Certificate will become available through technology as a QR code and more information about this will be issued when it becomes available.
FOOD BANKS AND AA MEETINGS HELD IN PARISH HALLS Food banks are considered as retail, grocery, and essential goods; a Vaccine Passport is not required.
AA meetings are considered as ‘in person teaching and instruction’ and the Vaccine Passport is not required. Those attending an AA meeting have wear face masks and be physically distanced from each other during the entire meeting.
However, it is the best practice and most effective health safeguard for those attending an AA meeting or receiving services or providing services at a Food Bank to be fully vaccinated.
SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION
Last year, Ascension Press (publisher for the Chosen program) provided the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough with online access to the videos for the Chosen program, a resource for the preparation leading to the Sacrament of Confirmation. This access has been discontinued this year.
In discussion with the publisher, it is suggested that each child be registered for the online Chosen program and they will receive the text, video access, and all other resources electronically.
If the parish is providing the Sacrament of Confirmation Preparation Program online, you will need to register each child individually for the online program at a cost of $18.95 per child. This cost is in US funds and will be covered by the program offering.
Once the child is registered through the sign-up link below, provide the child's username and password to the child and their parents. Keep a record of usernames and passwords at the parish.
ONLINE CHOSEN PROGRAM SIGN-UP LINK
The Mass Journal, Saint Project, and information for the meeting with the priest can be found through the link below.
ONLINE SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION PREPARATION DURING COVID-19 (Website for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough)
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| September 16, 2021 |
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September 16, 2021
LECTOR AND ALTAR SERVERS One lector and the altar server(s) may be present at each Mass as needed. Keep a record of the names of the lectors and altar servers present at the Mass along with the date and time of the Mass. This record can be kept for 30 days.
SCHOOL MASSES School Masses may be celebrated in the school or the church. Given that some parishes serve more than one school, online pastoral and liturgical ministry may continue as arranged with the priest and the school principal.
SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION It may or may not be possible to have in-person sacramental preparation that follows the pandemic health precautions. If the health precautions cannot be safely observed for an in-person program at the parish, the priest will consider using the online sacramental preparation programs that can be accessed through the Diocesan website homepage. Scroll down and the information for each sacramental preparation program offered online is visible. For the Sacrament of Confirmation, the program’s publisher is being contacted to see about access to the videos that accompany the Chosen program. The access from last year has been discontinued so arrangements are being made for the upcoming year.
PARISH HALLS Parish Halls can be opened for meetings/events observing the following points listed below:
VACCINE PASSPORT The province of Ontario is instituting a Vaccine Passport. The Vaccine Passport is not required for places of worship where a religious celebration is taking place. However, the Vaccine Passport is required in “meeting and event spaces.” The Vaccine Passport will include both receipts for the two doses of the vaccine and photo identification. The Vaccine Passport requirement becomes effective on Wednesday, September 22nd. Individuals who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical exemptions will be permitted entry with a doctor’s note until recognized medical exemptions can be integrated as part of a digital vaccine certificate. Children who are 11 years of age and younger and unable to be vaccinated will also be exempted from these requirements. For the period between September 22 and October 12, 2021, people attending wedding or funeral receptions at meeting or event spaces will be able to provide a negative rapid antigen COVID-19 test from no more than 48 hours before the event as an alternative to proof of vaccination. These rapid antigen tests would need to be privately purchased. Parish halls will not be hosting funeral or wedding receptions at this time. The Vaccine Passport will become available through technology as a QR code and more information about this will be issued when it becomes available.
GENERAL REMINDERS
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| July 23, 2021 |
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| July 14, 2021 |
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The provincial government announced that Ontario will be moving to Step 3 of the “Roadmap for Reopening” plan as of 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 16, 2021.
The Reopening Planning Committee for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough met today and issues the following directives to support the implementation of Step 3:
CHURCHES In Step 3, there is no capacity limit for churches and missions. However, physical distancing of 2 metres (6 feet) is still required between parishioners attending Mass who are not from the same household. Due to the physical distancing requirement, many churches may not realize any significant increase in capacity.
LITURGY AND LITURGICAL MINISTRIES
FUNERALS For funerals in Step 3, the Bereavement Authority of Ontario has issued the following guidelines:
Indoor Funeral Services Indoor funeral services are permitted with physical distancing of two metres (six feet) between people. There is no capacity limit, except for the physical distancing requirement. Masks or face coverings are required indoors. Passive screening continues: There must be passive screening of guests, meaning have COVID signage at the entrance for guests to self-assess. Contact tracing information must be collected. Records must be kept for 30 days. All attendees and staff must adhere to local public health unit restrictions.
Outdoor Services at Cemeteries There is no capacity limit, except for the physical distancing requirement. Cemeteries may restrict access as they deem necessary. All attendees and staff must adhere to local public health unit restrictions.
VARIA
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| July 9, 2021 |
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Step Three of the Reopening Strategy will begin on Friday, July 16th.
More information will be posted shortly.
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| June 24, 2021 |
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Ontario moves to a capacity limit of 25% for places of worship effective Wednesday, June 30th.
The Ontario provincial government announced today that the province will be moving into Step 2 of the Reopening Strategy as of 12:01 a.m., Wednesday, June 30th.
This move to Step 2, a couple of days ahead of schedule, reflects a cautious and prudent sense of optimism. The government has previously announced that each Step of the Reopening Strategy is expected to last for approximately 21 days.
INDOOR WEDDING, OR RELIGIOUS SERVICES, RITE OR CEREMONY
The attendance limit increases to 25% as of June 30th.
4. (1) This section applies with respect to gatherings for the purposes of a wedding, a funeral or a religious service, rite or ceremony, if the gathering is held in a building or structure other than a private dwelling.
(2) No person shall attend a gathering to which this section applies unless the following conditions are met:
1. The number of persons occupying any room in the building or structure while attending the gathering must not exceed 25 percent of the capacity of the particular room.
2. All persons attending the gathering must comply with public health guidance on physical distancing.FUNERALS (Bereavement Authority of Ontario)
Indoor and Outdoor Funerals, Services at Cemeteries
The lesser of 25 percent capacity of the room or the number that can be maintained with physical distancing of six feet/two meters to a maximum attendance of 75 people.
Guests must be logged to enable contact tracing. Records must be kept for 30 days.
WORKING REMOTELY
Working from home (remotely) is still the requirement in Step 2 – as of next week, the province will move into O. Reg. 263/20 as follows:
"Work from home except where necessary
2.1 (1) Each person responsible for a business or organization that is open shall ensure that any person who performs work for the business or organization conducts their work remotely unless the nature of their work requires them to be on-site at the workplace."FURTHER - WHAT IS ALLOWED IN STEP 2
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| June 7, 2021 |
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June 7, 2021
Step One of the Reopening Strategy
Premier Doug Ford announced that Step One of the Reopening Strategy begins at 12:01 am on Friday, June 11th, 2021 - the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.
As of Friday - these provisions will apply as follows:
Indoors – Maximum of 15 percent capacity of a particular room to a maximum of 50 attendees in the entire facility Outdoors – Two metres physical distancing to a maximum of 50 attendees The health precautions pertaining to the wearing of face masks, physical distancing and handwashing/cleaning, etc. remain in effect.
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| May 20, 2021 |
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THREE STEP REOPENING PLAN FOR THE PROVINCE OF ONTARIO
Premier Doug Ford announced today a three-step reopening plan for the province.
The steps for the plan are listed below. The timelines are approximate, but the government has announced that each step will last for at least 21 days unless the metric listed below is achieved earlier.
The Churches and Missions will continue to limit the attendance to 10 people (including the celebrant and liturgical ministers.)
Let us continue to pray for all of those impacted by the pandemic and to hold each other in our prayers.
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| May 13, 2021 |
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May 13, 2021
Extension of Emergency Measures and Stay-at-Home Order to June 2, 2021
Premier Doug Ford announced today that the Emergency Measures and the Stay-at-Home Order have been extended to Wednesday, June 2, 2021. This means that the cap on attendance for places of worship remains at 10 people (including the celebrant and liturgical ministers.)
The cap of 10 persons applies to religious services held indoors, or outdoors where attendees are not in vehicles. Additionally, the legislation allows for Drive-In religious services where attendees remain in their vehicles.
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| April 16, 2021 |
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APRIL 16, 2021
PREMIER FORD'S ANNOUNCEMENT TODAY - KEY MESSAGES FOR THE DIOCESE OF PETERBOROUGH Premier Doug Ford announced that as of Monday. April 19, 2021, the capacity for places of worship is limited to a cap of 10 people including the celebrant and liturgical ministers. The cap of 10 people applies to weddings, baptisms, and funerals. The cap of 10 people also applies to services held outdoors.
For all those who have died from the COVID-19 virus, locally and globally, let us remember them in our prayers; for those suffering from the COVID-19 virus and the variants of concern, for those caring for them, and for all who are impacted by the pandemic, we ask for the strength and the healing grace of God. |
| April 13, 2021 |
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APRIL 13, 2021 - ST. MARY PARISH, LINDSAY
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| April 9, 2021 |
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APRIL 9, 2021 - ST. MARY PARISH IN LINDSAY
For further and updated information, please consult the PARISH WEBSITE. |
| April 8, 2021 |
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APRIL 8, 2021 KEY MESSAGES - EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AND CIVIL PROTECTION ACT STAY-AT-HOME ORDER
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| April 1, 2021 - "Emergency Brake Shutdown" |
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Letter from +Most Reverend Bishop Miehm
APRIL 1, 2021 KEY MESSAGES This afternoon, Premier Doug Ford announced restrictions throughout Ontario to curtail the transmission of COVID-19. These changes will impact the churches and missions in our Diocese and will take effect as of Saturday morning, April 3, 2021 at 12:01 a.m.
The number of COVID-19 cases in the province has risen significantly in recent days. For the safety of all, each parish will ensure WorshipSafe guidelines and the COVID-19 Safety Plan are clearly followed to protect parishioners, clergy, and staff; and that the 15% capacity limit is maintained. Let us keep one another in prayer and enter into a prayerful spirit of reflection and meditation on the death and resurrection of our Lord during these holy days.
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| February 9, 2021 - Premier Doug Ford's Announcement |
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February 9, 2021
Premier Doug Ford made an Announcement yesterday concerning the rate of COVID-19 infections in the province, the impact of these infections, and the legislated provisions to curtail the spread of the virus. The Premier noted that while progress has been made and he encouraged everyone to continue staying at home as much as possible, the province remains in a medical emergency.
The Stay-at-Home Order will end for the Hastings-Prince Edward Counties Health Unit as of Wednesday, February 10 at 12:01 a.m. This applies to St. Alphonsus Church, Wooler. Once the Order is lifted, the Hastings and Prince Edward counties transition back to the colour-coded Framework which details a 30% limit for churches. Daily Mass and Sunday Mass at 30% capacity observing all other pandemic health precautions will resume at St. Alphonsus Church in Wooler as of Wednesday, February 10th.
The rest of the Diocese remains under the Stay-at-Home Order until Tuesday, February 16, 2021. As of 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, February 16, the Diocese of Peterborough will transition to the colour-coded Framework. Each of the 5 regional Health Units serving the Diocese (Peterborough, Durham, HKPR, Simcoe-Muskoka, and North Bay-Parry Sound) will designate whether the jurisdiction is lockdown continued, grey, red, orange, yellow, or green.
Employees working from home as much as possible Employees of the parishes and the Diocese will work from home until February 16, 2021, and work from home as much as possible thereafter in consultation with their pastor/supervisor.
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| January 12, 2021 - Declaration of a Second State of Emergency related to the Pandemic |
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January 12, 2021
Premier Doug Ford declared a second provincial emergency which went into effect yesterday and the Premier has also issued a Stay-at-Home Order which goes into effect on Thursday, January 14, 2021, at 12:01 a.m. The State of Emergency and the Stay-at-Home Order will remain in effect until February 10, 2021.
Here is a summary of the implications for churches of the State of Emergency and the Stay-at-Home Order.
The obligation to attend Mass does not apply to those who are ill, especially those who suffer from a contagious illness. Those with flu-like symptoms should remain at home in order not to spread the virus to others.
+Most Reverend Bishop Miehm continues to dispense the faithful from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass.
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| January 6 2021 - Permission for Daily Mass with 10 People including the Celebrant |
| January 6 2021
Effective January 7, 2021, +Most Rev. Bishop Miehm has given his permission for the celebration of Daily Mass in the parishes of the Diocese of Peterborough for a maximum of 10 people, including the celebrant, during the period of provincial lockdown because of COVID-19. |
| December 7 2020 - Letter from Most Rev. Bishop Miehm |
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December 7, 2020 Memorial of St. Ambrose Dear Clergy, Religious and Lay Faithful of the Diocese of Peterborough, As the season of Advent progresses, it is a time of longing and expectation like no other. We continue to pray for health, wellbeing, and a return to normal life, but we know that the COVID-19 pandemic will be with us for a while still. Since the re-opening of our churches in June we have worked diligently as clergy and parishioners, in partnership with public health officials, to implement our Worship Safe guidelines and ensure the health and welfare of our people. I wish to thank you for your patience and your diligent efforts in this regard. They have allowed our parishes to promote the spiritual lives of the faithful while also attending to their physical health. As Catholics, we follow the prudent restrictions that are outlined in these protocols as a matter of good citizenship and as an exercise of our faith. Moreover, they help us to fulfill the obligations of charity and justice toward our neighbour. While a certain amount of pandemic fatigue is understandable, it is important for all of us to redouble our efforts to follow the Worship Safe protocols. The Assembly of Ontario Bishops Worship Safe Committee has recently released some enhanced protocols to ensure the wellbeing of the people who come to our churches. This is important as we head into the winter months and as we are seeing a great surge in the number of cases in our province. We must be diligent about wearing masks at church and continue to practice safe physical distancing – at least 2 meters if not in the same household. This allows us to have confidence in each other and assures the civil authorities that we are being responsible in what we are doing to follow public health guidelines here in our Diocese. With the recent, dramatic increase in the number of cases in our province, I wish to reaffirm our stated policy on the reception of Communion. Holy Communion must be received on the hand rather than the tongue during this time. While reception on the tongue remains normative in our Church, it is good to recall that the practice of receiving on the hand is an ancient and venerable one. As long ago as the 4th century, St. Cyril of Jerusalem wrote, “In approaching therefore, come not with your wrists extended or your fingers spread; but make your left hand a throne for the right, as for that which is to receive a King.” I am aware that this is a sensitive matter for some. Canon law reminds us that the exercise of our rights in the Church must take account of the common good and our duty toward others (C. 223 §1). Therefore, I ask that those whose practice is to receive Holy Communion on the tongue, set aside this right for the sake of others. This practice of charity and fraternity will be an expression of who we are as the Church. It is also important that physical distancing be maintained during the procession for Holy Communion and that masks be worn – they are to be removed at the moment of reception using the straps, without touching the front of the mask. I thank you for your attention to and cooperation with these protocols which have been implemented for the wellbeing of all who come to our churches. With you, I pray for an end to this pandemic with the hopes that we might return to a more typical celebration of the Mass sometime in 2021. May God bless you abundantly in this joyful Advent and Christmas time, and may you and your family members be safe and well. Yours in Christ, +Most. Rev. Daniel Miehm Bishop of Peterborough |
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GUIDANCE FOR THE CHRISTMAS MASSES AND THE POSSIBILITY OF OUT-OF-TOWN VISITORS |
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GUIDANCE FOR THE CHRISTMAS MASSES AND THE POSSIBILITY OF OUT-OF-TOWN VISITORS
It is anticipated that the Christmas festivities will look a little different this year. However, what remains constant is the joy with which we welcome the celebration of Jesus' Birth. The regional Health Units have affirmed that celebrating Christmas with your immediate household is the safest option, and everyone has been encouraged to think twice about visits with people living in areas of high transmission. Plainly, the Health Units say that the best advice is to avoid non-essential travel, especially to and from areas of high transmission to areas of low transmission, and to find other ways to celebrate this year. However, no one who has pre-registered for a Mass at a parish or who arrives at a parish where the seating capacity of 30% has not been reached, will be turned away. All are welcome as possible given the capacity restrictions in place for our churches. There is a dispensation in place from the obligation to attend Mass. If you are concerned about your health, have travelled outside of the country in the past 14 days, are feeling unwell, experiencing a symptom associated with COVID-19 or awaiting a COVID-19 test result, it is important to stay at home and to consider praying with the Mass broadcast on television or through social media. These provisions are intended to safeguard good health:
Should the church's capacity limit be reached and it is not permissible to seat more people in the church, your understanding and patience are appreciated. We encourage you to consider watching the televised Mass from the Cathedral of St. Peter-in-Chains on Cogeco YourTV or other broadcasts on Salt & Light TV, EWTN, Shalom World TV, Daily TV Mass, Catholic TV, and Vatican Media Live. Let us heed the advice we have received, follow the practices we have put in place, and continue to look after one another this Christmas. |
UPDATES FROM BISHOP MIEHM |
UPDATES FROM BISHOP MIEHMBishop Miehm's Statement about the Provincial Shutdown, December 22, 2020 Letter from Bishop Miehm - December 7, 2020 Adapted Liturgical Text - Celebrating the Sacrament of Confirmation during the Pandemic Decree for Celebrating the Sacrament of Confirmation during the Pandemic Consecration of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough to Mary, Mother of the Church Chrism Mass Homily - March 30, 2020 Decree for Holy Week and the Celebration of the Paschal Triduum COGECO Sunday program on March 29, 2020 Message from Bishop Miehm - March 19, 2020 His Excellency Most Reverend Bishop Miehm's Video Message about Reopening the Parishes Letter from +His Excellency Most Reverend Bishop Miehm, June 10, 2020. Letter from Most Reverend Bishop Miehm regarding the Reopening Process - May 19, 2020 End of Life Decision-Making and Advance Care Planning Update #4 - March 30, 2020 Update #3 - March 24, 2020 Update #2 - March 17, 2020 Update #1 - March 13, 2020 Statement - March 6, 2020 |
| MASS AVAILABLE ELECTRONICALLY |
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MASS AVAILABLE ELECTRONICALLY
Masses on the YouTube Channel for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough
LIVE-STREAMING OF THE MASSClick HERE for the parish locations, dates, and times for the live-streaming of Masses.
RESOURCESCatholicism in the Time of Coronavirus
WAY OF THE CROSSThe Way of the Cross is cancelled for this year due to the pandemic. Please click this link to view the At the Foot of the Cross, the Way of the Cross which was filmed in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough in 2016.
WE PRAYANOINTING OF THE SICK - Printable Version POPE FRANCIS' PRAYER FOR THE PROTECTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY |
