By-Law Requires Mandatory Use of Masks at Church

I want to thank all of you for your co-operation and kindness as we have returned to church over these past weeks. It has been so great to see parishioners once again and I thank everyone who has been so helpful in this re-opening stage, especially our wonderful volunteers. Thank you!

As you may have heard in recent days, a new by-law has been passed that makes the use of masks or face coverings inside all public places mandatory. This includes churches and our own parish. 

All those coming to church should bring a mask or face covering and wear it upon entering the church. Parishes are not required to distribute masks – however we do have a limited quantity available if you should forget to bring one with you.

Priests do not need to wear masks in the sanctuary while celebrating Mass but should ensure they are wearing a mask when distributing Holy Communion and any other setting where they are in close proximity (less than 2m/6 ft) to parishioners. Lectors should remove masks to proclaim the Word of God. 

Exceptions to the by-law include people who cannot wear a mask for medical reasons (trouble breathing or unable to remove a mask without assistance) and children under two years old. Proof of a medical condition is not required.

In addition to this announcement our Ministers of Hospitality will gently communicate this new requirement, to those who may not be aware, as they welcome the faithful outside the doors of the church. While it is impossible to force someone to wear a mask, this measure is being undertaken to care for our neighbour and to minimize the spread of Covid-19.

I recognize that this may be an inconvenience, yet I know that we are all committed to caring for our neighbour and those around us. While several restrictions have been lifted in recent days, we are still in the middle of a pandemic and need to take the appropriate steps to minimize any potential spread of Covid-19. So, while the Archdiocese of Toronto had highly recommended wearing a mask while in church, and I know that most of you have been doing so, it is now a by-law that we must follow. 

Thank you in advance for your co-operation as we do all that we can to take care of one another and keep our community safe and healthy.