Saint Michael  

the Archangel

     As you know, after prayer and consultation with government and public health officials and our diocesan priests, Bishop Parkes has decided to grant permission to pastors throughout the Diocese of St. Petersburg, at their discretion, to resume the public celebration of Sunday Masses the weekend of May 30-31, 2020, Pentecost Sunday.  We at St. Michael’s will be resuming Sunday Masses on those dates.

     We are called to be good stewards of our health and to take practical steps to avoid spreading illness. Therefore, restrictions will be in place since we still remain in the midst of a pandemic. For now, we will be limiting the number of people in the church for social distancing and continue the practice of frequent sanitizing.  The risk of coming into contact with coronavirus remains; individuals and families should take personal responsibility to protect them.

     Please NOTE:  All Catholics remain dispensed from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass until further notice.  If anyone is at greater risk due to age, illness, or other health conditions, or do not feel comfortable to being in public, please do not come to Mass.  Let us show charity, patience and kindness as new processes and plans are developed.
 

     We will be following the guidelines and recommendations put forth by local government, health officials, and the St. Petersburg Diocese.  Many precautions are in place throughout our church to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19.  Those who are ill, elderly or have underlying health conditions are urged to stay home. 

When attending daily Mass, we will be insisting on the following:

• Social distancing - For those who are not from the same household, please maintain a 6-foot distance from each other at all times (Including during Communion) and follow any posted guidelines.  The whole church will be open to help facilitate social distancing. 
• Physical contact is prohibited - Such as during the exchanging the sign of peace or holding hands during the Our Father. 
• All hymnals have been removed - The weekly bulletin contains the daily Mass antiphons for the week. Please take the bulletin home with you.
• Face coverings - Masks are required.  Please bring a face covering and wear it during the Mass. Video...
• Hand sanitizer - Please use the hand sanitizer at the church entrances before entering (You may also bring your own).

     Our prayer is that whether you join us in person for Mass or stay at home for health reasons, we will be united and present to the Lord in prayer, worship and service.