Mary Immaculate Parishmaryimmaculateny.org/bulletins/2020-05-24.pdf · Mary Immaculate Parish St. Mary’s Seventh Sunday of Easter Immaculate Conception 11095 St. Mary’s St. May

Mary Immaculate Parish

St. Mary’s Seventh Sunday of Easter Immaculate Conception 11095 St. Mary’s St. May 24, 2020 5865 Ellicott St. Rd.

P.O. Box 442 Acts 1: 12‐14 P.O. Box 98 Pavilion, NY 14525 1 Peter 4:13‐16 East Bethany, NY 14054 John 17: 1‐11a

Staff Fr. Alphonse Arulanandu

E‐mail: [email protected] Deacon Edward Birmingham Secretary – Christine Korytkowski Bookkeeper – Diane Costa DRE ‐ April Stringham

Office Phone (585) 584‐7031 Rectory (585) 252‐3091 Emergency Cell (601) 951‐0333 Parish Office Hours: Tuesday & Thursday: 9:00am–1:00pm

E‐mail: [email protected] Fax: (585) 250‐4213

Website: www.MaryImmaculateNY.org

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Mass Schedule

All weekend Masses with 10 people will be celebrated until further Notice. Kindly reserve your participation Confessions: Any time by appointment.

Daily Masses are celebrated as scheduled.

Kindly log‐on to our diocesan website for: LIVE‐STREAMED MASSES.

Entrance Antiphon: O Lord, hear my voice, for I have called to you; of you my heart has spoken: Seek his face; hide not your face from me, alleluia. (Psalm 27 (26):7‐6)

Welcome to Mary Immaculate Parish

Mother Mary: We Love You, intercede for us at this time of COVID ‐19! Amen.

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.maryimmaculateny.org/

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Mass Intentions

Seventh week of Easter Mon. 05/25 - Acts 19:1-8 (Memorial Day) John 16:29-33 Tue. 05/26 - Mass 8.30am East Bethany Reading - Acts 20:17-27 John 17: 1-11 (St. Philip Neri) Wed. 05/27 - Mass 8.30am Pavilion Reading - Acts 20:28-38 John 17:11-19 (St. Augustine of Canterbury) Thur. 05/28 – Mass 8.30am East Bethany Reading - Acts 22:30; 23:6-11 John 17: 20-26 Fri. 05/29 – Mass 8.30am Pavilion Reading - Acts 25:13-21 John 21:15-19 Sat. 05/30 – Acts 28:16-20,30-31 John 21:20-25 (St. Joan of Arc)

Starting from May 30/31, 2020, temporarily, we will begin to follow regular Mass schedule. Weekend Masses will be limited to 10 people and you must make reservations. Reservations for the 4pm Saturday and 9.30am Sunday Masses can be made by calling Margaret Gifford at 356-8211. Reservations for the 8am Sunday Mass can be made by calling John Callari at 768-2934. Daily Mass reservations are not required but will be limited to 10 people. All CDC guidelines will be adhered to. Masks are required. Read our online bulletin for further announcements. These arrangements are only temporary. Thanks.

The month May is a time when the People of God express with particular intensity their love and devotion for the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is traditional in this month to pray the Rosary at home within the family. The restrictions of the pandemic have made us come to appreciate even more this “family” aspect, also from a spiritual point of view. For this reason, I want to encourage everyone to rediscover the beauty of praying the Rosary at home in the month of May. This can be done either as a group or individually; you can decide according to your own situations, making the most of both opportunities. The key to doing this is always simplicity, and it is easy also on the internet to find good models of prayers to follow…I myself will pray in the month of May, in spiritual union with all of you. Dear brothers and sisters, contemplating the face of Christ with the heart of Mary our Mother will make us even more united as a spiritual family and will help us overcome this time of trial. I keep all of you in my prayers, especially those suffering most greatly, and I ask you, please, to pray for me.” Pope Francis

PLEASE PRAY FOR OUR SICK: Julia Barniak, Joseph Dean, David Welliver, Emma Burkell, Carl Taylor, Doris Elliott, Bonny Winspear, Jimmy Stothers, Erica Dombrowski, Etta Winter, Maverick Brumsted-Shaw, Jerry Rider, Jr., Robert Collette, Herman Hensel, Judy Wolf, Mary Lou Schmidt, Clarence Winspear, Ellie Volpe, Jeff True, Joyce Herold, Patrick Birmingham. PLEASE REMEMBER OUR NURSING HOME PARISHIONERS: Louise Lynch, Father Richard Cilano (Carol Stream, Illinois). PRAY FOR THOSE SERVING IN THE MILITARY: Joseph Stanley, Maj. Jason Palermo, W2 Christian Koch, Dan Murphy, Alex Roth, Tim Stalica, Jady Gray, Jakob Kosiorek, Paul Agan Jr., Mst. Sgt. Nicholas Boyer, Brett Sheffer, Captain Mathieu Philie, SFC Jay Knower, Michael Rigoni, Mark Wilkinsen, Hunter Schiske and Sgt. Mike Steffenella PARISH COUNCIL MEETINGS: Cancelled. attend. ENVELOPES: If you plan to attend mass at a different church, feel free to put your envelope in at hat chu ch. It will make its way o our parish. The

church you attend will happily ail your envelope to ary Immaculate Parish on your behalf.

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Will you help Pavilion Community Food Pantry with some food?

Kindly help us with; eggs, meats, cereals, pastas,

beans, baked beans, Chef Boyardee, etc.

For information, Please Call: (585) 584-8795. THANKS

PARISH REPORT

Regular Collection: Will be reported later.

Kindly send your weekly donations by post. Thanks for your support and generosity.

Reflection:

Christian life is always a response to God's call, in any living condition…Once again I would like to express my closeness to those who are suffering from Covid-19, to those who are dedicated to their care and to all those who, in any way, are suffering from the pandemic. At the same time, I would like to support and encourage the international cooperation that is launching various initiatives aimed at responding adequately and effectively to the serious crisis we are experiencing.

Indeed, it is important to bring together scientific capabilities, in a transparent and disinterested way, in order to find vaccines and treatments and to guarantee universal access to essential technologies that will enable every infected person, in every part of the world, to receive the necessary health care…May, the quintessential Marian month, during which the faithful love to visit the Shrines dedicated to Our Lady. This year, because of the health situation, let us visit these places of faith and devotion spiritually, to place in the heart of the Blessed Virgin our worries, expectations and plans for the future.

Our prayer is for all those persons who clean hospitals, the streets, who empty dumpsters, who go to each house to remove trash. It is a work that no one sees, but it is a job that is necessary to survive. May the Lord bless them and help them.

Today in the world, there is a great feeling of being orphaned: many have many things, but the Father is missing. And this is repeated in the history of mankind: when the Father is missing, something is missing and there is always a desire to find, to rediscover the Father... always looking for the missing Father. Today we can say that we live in a society where the Father is missing, a sense of being orphans that affects one’s belonging and fraternity. Let us ask the Holy Spirit to remind us always, always, how to access the Father, to remind us that we have a Father. And to this civilization that has a huge sense of being orphaned, may He grant the grace of finding the Father once again, the Father who provides everyone with a sense of meaning in life. May He make all men and women one family. Pope Francis

Reflection:05/24/2020

Seventh Sunday of Easter John 17: 1‐11a

The central challenge from the Holy Spirit in today’s readings is, with His grace, to rejoice in our sufferings for the Faith. For the more we suffer, the more we are identified with Jesus who has liberated us from the bondage of sin by his suffering and death.

Today’s first reading tells us how the apostles waited in prayer for the coming of the Spirit Who would enable them to preach and bear witness to Christ in spite of persecutions. In the second reading, Peter challenges his early Christian audience and us to view and accept suffering as an opportunity to be more fully one with Jesus.

Therefore, we need to center our Christian life on prayer. Christian prayer has forms for individual Christians and for communities. These include individual prayer, the prayer of the liturgy, and para-liturgical prayers/services, such as Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. There are also different kinds of prayer, including vocal prayers, the Rosary, and contemplative prayer. In the final analysis, prayer means getting into contact with God -- listening to Him and talking to Him. We should try to set aside some time each day to spend with God in prayer. If we are convinced of the presence of God within us, we can talk to Him even while we are driving, waiting in line or doing routine work in the kitchen or yard. Our talk with God can include praise and thanksgiving, pleas for forgiveness and prayer for our needs. A few minutes spent in reading the Bible is a good way of listening to God.

We need to glorify Christ by the lives we live. When we live ethical lives, that is, lives of integrity in which our performance is in harmony with our profession of Faith, we are glorifying Jesus. An honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay, a fair deal on a product, a truthful, trustworthy guarantee – all these reflect our integrity. We glorify God by our prayer-life and our faithful observance of the Lord’s Day. We glorify Jesus by humble and selfless service to Him in our brothers and sisters – distributing lunches to the homeless begging on the street corner, volunteering at homeless shelters, tutoring children, helping with after-school care, teaching Vacation Bible School, or doing random acts of kindness. Finally, we glorify God by speaking kind, merciful, loving and encouraging words. Fr.Alphonse

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Spring Raffle Update:

With the governor’s extended PAUSE order, and the cancellation of our BBQs, we want to give you an update on the Spring Raffle which was slated to end 5/17/20. Designed to run 9 weeks from BBQ #1 until BBQ #3, we only had the tickets available that first week, before we were “shut down”. Once we reopen and can return to weekly mass, the Raffle Committee will select a new drawing date with the goal of giving ourselves 6-8 weeks to sell/return the tickets. So, if we re-open mid-May, this could become a Father’s Day drawing. If it is closer to Memorial weekend, then perhaps it becomes a 4th of July drawing.

The intent here is to wrap it up in a timely fashion, and in a successful manner so that we raise some funds to help the parish. We do NOT want to extend this into the Fall and compete with the Breakfast Raffle. SO, if you have your tickets please hold on to them. IF you do not have your tickets, set aside $20 from your stimulus check (LOL) so you will be ready when you do get your tickets. We pray that God keeps you safe during this pandemic, and we hope to see you soon back in the pews. God Bless. Mike and Kathy Jackson.

WEEKLY CONTRIBUTION: Along with your package of envelopes you will find an envelope that is pre-addressed for mailing to the parish. This envelope, or your own, can be used to send in your weekly contribution or, if it is easier, your monthly contribution. Please be sure your envelope number is included with any donations you do make. Remember that, even if we are not holding Mass, our normal expenses for heat, cleaning, staffing, etc. does continue. We sincerely appreciate everyone's understanding during this difficult time. If you have any questions, please contact Father Alphonse or the office during their normal business hours.

Almighty every living God, have mercy on us and heal us from this deadly virus COVID -19.

You can watch live Mass, Rosary and participate in devotions on EWTN (TV). OR, if you subscribe to WORDONFIRE by Bishop Robert Brown, you could receive email reflections every morning at no

cost and watch Mass live by sitting at Home.

HANDICAPPED PARKING AT ST. MARY’S: We have noticed the difficulty that our elder or handicapped parishioners are having trying to enter St. Mary’s Church. In an effort to ease this situation, we will try to have someone available 15 minutes before Mass to aid any parishioners into the church and into a church pew. In this regard, we also are asking that no one park in the loop between the rectory and church. This will allow anyone in need to more easily enter the church from the loop entrance.

We will need volunteers so, if you are able and willing to greet/assist parishioners 15 minutes prior to Mass, please do so. If you have any questions, please contact Lisa Schiske or Fr. Alphonse. We are a community and we know that our parishioners cannot be matched with their strength of fellowship. PARISH COUNCIL MEETINGS: As you may be aware, Fr. Jim has taken up residency in the Immaculate Conception rectory. Due to this, we can no longer hold Parish Council meetings in the dining room of the rectory. Meetings held in East Bethany will be held in the Immaculate Conception Hall in the pie room (anyone who comes to the BBQ’s will know where the pies are cut and take‐out orders filled). If you do not know where the room is, you will enter by the door facing the main parking lot. As always, any interested party is welcome to attend Parish Council meetings.

“Keep Social Distance, Stay Home and Be Safe”

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At this critical moment, marked by the

global health emergency caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, we have rediscovered the fundamental importance of the role being played by nurses and midwives. Every day we witness the testimony of courage and sacrifice of healthcare workers, and nurses in particular, who, with professionalism, self-sacrifice, and a sense of responsibility and love for neighbour, assist people affected by the virus, even to the point of putting their own health at risk. Sadly, this can be seen in the high number of healthcare workers who have died as a result of their faithful service. I pray for them – the Lord knows each of them by name – and for all the victims of this epidemic. May the Risen Lord grant to each of them the light of heaven and to their families the consolation of faith.

The crisis we are facing should not make us forget the many other crises that bring suffering to so many people…Displaced people offer us this opportunity to meet the Lord, even though our eyes find it hard to recognize him: his clothing in tatters, his feet dirty, his face disfigured, his body wounded, his tongue unable to speak our language…You have to know in order to understand.

Knowledge is a necessary step towards understanding others. It is necessary to be close in order to serve. It may seem obvious, yet often it is the contrary. In order to be reconciled, we need to listen. In order to grow, it is necessary to share. We need to be involved in order to promote. It is necessary to cooperate in order to build. In the present context it should be reiterated that this is not a time for self-centeredness, because the challenge we are facing is shared by all, without distinguishing between persons.” Pope Francis

For weekend Mass, kindly log on to our parish web site, Mary Immaculate Parish face book or YouTube for live Mass from St. Mary’s Church, Pavilion, NY. Thanks for watching.

LOTTERY BASKET: This year our Lottery Basket will be filled with various lottery tickets totally $100 in chances. Tickets will be available to purchase at our Chicken BBQ’s. The drawing for the lottery basket is postponed. At this time we anticipate the drawing will take place at our Annual Parish Breakfast in October. Please read the bulletin for further information.So, bring that $1, take a chance, try your luck and remember … “It’s just a $1 and a Dream!” Hey, you never know … CATHOLIC CHARITIES: Today kicks off Appeal Week in parishes across the Diocese of Buffalo. Please help us reach our goal of $10 million by contributing or pledging today. Your donation helps strengthen, protect and empower thousands of people across Western New York through Catholic Charities services and a number of ministries through the Fund for the Faith. Will you think of those most in need in Western New York? Make a secure donation online at http://www.ccwny.org/donation or by calling 716‐218‐1400. Think of Me.

DO YOU LIKE MUSIC? If you do and you think it adds to our liturgy, perhaps you can help us out. Though we have dedicated and talented musicians at each church, they need your help. We are looking for parishioners to form a committee to discuss and plan where our music program goes from this point on. We will be in need of organs or keyboards. We are open to suggestions of different musical instruments. We are looking for ideas to create musical interest in our parish and to encourage our children to be more involved. If any of this interests you, please contact Father Alphonse or call the office.

DID YOU GET YOUR FREE COPY? Be sure to grab your copy of ‘Celebrating Sunday for Catholic Families’ before they are gone. This is a great way to encourage yourself and your children with the Mass and deepen your appreciation of the richness of your faith life. These booklets are a good way to prepare, participate, and reflect each week. Copies can be found at the entrance of each church. Get yours before they are gone!

Kindly read our bulletin for diocesan guidelines.

http://www.ccwny.org/donation

Forward in Faith: Guidance for Returning to Parish Life

Governor Cuomo and other state officials have indicated that the State of New York will reopen on a regional basis, as each region meets necessary criteria based on the need to protect public health. The Diocese of Buffalo encompasses two regional councils — Western New York (including Erie, Niagara, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany counties) and the Finger Lakes (including Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming counties).

Currently, no counties in the Diocese of Buffalo meet these criteria. However, there is a need to anticipate, dialogue, and prepare for a time when our houses of worship and wider community will reopen to a “new normal.”

The fact that our diocese spans two state-organized regions necessitates that any plans be implemented locally by vicariates and parish leaders, in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil directives. As such, this document provides theological and liturgical guidance in accordance with the norms of the Roman Catholic Church, taking into consideration the needs of the common good and health of the community.

Following the authority of our Apostolic Administrator, Bishop Scharfenberger, as chief liturgist of the diocese, this document includes certain mandates that must be followed, along with guidelines and suggestions for solutions that may work in many parishes, recognizing that no single guideline will meet the needs of every parish, and that some items may be adapted based on local need.

While these guidelines seek to define procedures surrounding the Mass, they could be extended to include other, similar public devotions in general. Additional directives specific to sacraments and ministry to the sick and grieving will be forthcoming.

Please contact the Office of Worship for clarification, questions, or assistance with implementation of these policies.

COVID-19 REOPENING PLAN —�—1 REV. 5/20/2020

Preparing Our Worship Spaces

It is essential that our parishioners feel welcome in their parish home. As such, we must prepare the space not only so that it is a familiar, comfortable experience, but that we also balance pastoral care with an eye to cleanliness, safety, and the common good.

A return to public celebrations will be safe, gradual, and ordered. We will strive for progress, not perfection. There will, no doubt, be challenges and frustrations, and adjustments may need to be made along the way. We must accept reasonable sacrifices to serve our own community, so as not to contribute to a rebound effect of the virus.

• Communication — parishioners must be made aware of each parish’s plans forpreparation prior to reopening and their arrival at the parish campus via whatevermeans are practical (letter, robocall, email, and/or social media).

• Cleaning Supplies — Each parish should ensure it has adequate supplies forcleaning public spaces, including door handles, pews, etc. However, the faithfulshould be encouraged to bring disinfectant wipes with them to assist in sanitizingthe areas they occupy, particularly in times of individual prayer.

• Appropriate cleaning of high-use areas within the church is to be done before andafter each Mass; adjustment of the Mass schedule may be needed to ensure adequatetime. (However, a multiplication of Masses will require more cleaning.)• Pews utilized by any person must be wiped down with disinfectant.• Restroom facilities and door handles, push plates and knobs, are to be sanitized

after each Mass.• Ambos, microphones and other common areas of the sanctuary should also be

attended to in some way.


Can. 223 §1. In exercising their rights, the Christian faithful, both as individuals and gathered together in associations, must take into account the common good of the Church, the rights of others, and their own duties toward others.

§2. In view of the common good, ecclesiastical authority can directthe exercise of rights which are proper to the Christian faithful.

• Aisles, floors, and seating should be clearly marked to facilitate social distancing ofsix feet between individuals who do not share the same household.• Aisles should be configured for one-way traffic (see liturgical notes).• Depending on your liturgical space, you may wish to stagger the pews used. For

instance, odd pews could be used on one side of the main aisle, and even on theother.

• Approximately two unoccupied pews provide enough distance, and staggeringwhere in the pew (left or right) a family sits can assist distancing requirements.

• The CDC, State of New York and other county health departments can provide thelatest requirements, as they may change rapidly as reopening occurs.

• Capacity may be limited to a specific number or percentage of the available space.• Be sure to use methods of sectioning/marking that do not harm finishes on church

furnishings.

• Hymn books and other resources must be removed from pews and entry ways; theyshould be sanitized as best they can be and not be returned to the church until theoutbreak has passed.

• Holy water fonts and stoops should be emptied. They may be covered, but shouldnot be filled with anything else.

• Hand sanitizer is to be made available throughout the church when possible.

• All liturgical ministers and ushers should wear masks and practice diligent hand-washing and social distancing.• Ministers of hospitality should to also wear gloves to assist in operating doors,

push plates, etc.• All staff and volunteers are to be trained in regard to new procedures.

• The liturgical environment should reflect the liturgical season, but decorationsshould be kept to a minimum (fewer surfaces to attract germs).


Sunday Obligation

• Until further notice, Catholics in the Diocese of Buffalo continue to be dispensedfrom the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays, in particular those who are mostvulnerable.

• Those Who Are Well:• Masses should not specifically be designated for particular groups (i.e. a Mass “for

seniors”), but instead, welcome all who are well as best they can.

• Livestreaming efforts that have developed over the course of the COVID-19 crisisshould be continued, especially for those who do not yet feel comfortableattending Mass in public.

• Those who do not receive Communion are encouraged to make an Act of SpiritualCommunion.

• Those Who Are Sick:• We care for the Body of Christ by first taking care of our own body. The obligation

to participate in Mass is not required for those who are sick. A person who is sickshould not worsen their illness by trying to get to church, and they should not putothers at risk of catching their illness.

• It is not sinful to miss Mass if one is sick; it is actually an expression of care for thehealth of others.

• For those who are seriously ill, the Church wants to celebrate with them theSacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. This can be arranged by contacting theparish office.

• If one has symptoms of the coronavirus, they should seek medical attention.


“The Sunday Eucharist is the foundation and confirmation of all Christian practice. For this reason the faithful are obliged to participate in the Eucharist on days of obligation, unless excused for a serious reason (for example, illness, the care of infants) or dispensed by their own pastor.”

— Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 2181

Entrance and Welcome

• Each member of the faithful over 2 years of age will be required to wear a mask.• Parishes should have a nominal quantity of disposable masks for those who may

simply forget to bring their own. Do not distribute the masks for fear of that this will be a guarantee of the safety and security of the masks.

• Celebrants do not have to wear protective covering in the sanctuary (if alone or appropriately distanced from another minister), but should wear a face mask and/or protective shield during communion (see liturgical notes).

• The faithful should be encouraged to take their temperature at home, and to remain at home if they are experiencing symptoms or believe they have been exposed to those with COVID-19.

• Ushers and other ministers of hospitality should be trained and seat people as they arrive, starting in the front of the church and moving toward the back.• A similar procedure of dismissal from back to the front should be employed at the

end of Mass.

• Volunteers who help to prepare the celebration of Mass must wear gloves in addition to face masks when setting up or putting things away and should sanitize their hands upon entering or leaving the building.

Liturgical Changes

Most changes noted below are mandated and temporary. Once again, please contact the Office of Worship for clarification, questions or assistance in implementing these changes in your local setting. The goal of these regulations is to maintain the integrity of the liturgy, while addressing the current needs of the wider community in the interest of public health and safety.

• Limits to the Number of People Gathered — In terms of percentage of occupancy to allow in the Church, please follow the guidelines in your community for large gatherings such as theaters.• Altar servers are not to participate, and the use of choirs is also temporarily

suspended.• The inclusion of additional ministers (for instance, a second lector) should be

carefully considered, and all should have an assigned place in or near the sanctuary ahead of time, in accordance with distancing rules.


• Alternatives to increase the availability of in-person services could include:• Masses celebrated in school gyms or parish centers (if they are significantly

larger than the parish church) or livestream to such a space as overflow;• Parking lot services via an FM Transmitter or outdoor Masses with appropriate

distancing (perhaps people remaining in cars);• Live streaming of the Mass to parishioners’ homes for those still not yet able to

attend.• Clergy, staff, and volunteers should be careful in logistical planning and training of

those facilitating such an experience. Even in these alternative settings, hygieneand safety are paramount.

• All liturgical ministers should model good hygienic practices before, during, andafter Mass.

• Processions — Entrance processions should follow a “simple form” and not takeplace among/through the people; the priest alone should proceed from the sacristyto the altar; all other ministers should be in their places ahead of time.• As an alternative, the celebrant may also be at the chair and simply stand to begin

the Mass.• There is to be no offertory procession, as noted above.

• Bread and Wine for Mass should simply be prepared on a credence table andkept away from public areas.

• At the appropriate time, hosts for the congregation should be placed on the altaras far as possible from the celebrant, with his own paten and chalice closer forthe Eucharistic Prayer.

• Music — Congregational singing should be temporarily discontinued, since singingexpels more respiratory particles than speaking does.• As always, recorded music is prohibited.• Soloist cantors and instrumental music should be employed, with no more than

one or two cantors and an instrumentalist.• Since processions will be shortened, music may be curtailed as well.• Musicians must also adhere to social distancing requirements and don masks.• Clean the keyboards/instruments, and cantor stand.• The use of disposable worship aids for musicians and congregants is highly

recommended.


• Liturgical Books and Licensing — Just because a parish owns or subscribes to ahymnal, it does not give the parish the right to reproduce music/materials.• As always, observe all copyright laws and contact your publisher regarding

licensing.• You must have a separate license, which is based on the parish location(s) and

average weekly attendance. Some companies offered this gratis until Easter, butthose offers have expired. The diocese can not purchase a “one for all” license.

• This applies to reproduction on paper, electronic screens in the church, mobiledevices, as well as streaming services offered by the parish (a podcast/streaminglicense is required, and some like Facebook and YouTube have the ability to blockcopyrighted material from being transmitted).

• Consider using familiar hymns that are in the public domain.• Apps like “iBreviary” and “Daily Readings for Catholics” can be useful resources.• While the use of mobile devices to access sites like the USCCB during the liturgy

may be encouraged for those who would normally use the missalette to follow thereadings at Mass, the use of similar devices by lectors, celebrants to proclaim theWord of God is strictly prohibited.

• Celebrants should use the Book of Gospels to avoid contact with the Lectionary,which the lector can remove from the ambo following the Second Reading.• Both should be gently sanitized after Mass, taking care not to harm them.

Collection

• One or more large baskets/receptacles may be placed near the altar.• Congregants should be encouraged to place their gift in the baskets prior to Mass,

as they are being seated, or at another appropriate time determined by the parish.• Preferably, ushers could use long-handled baskets to collect money from each pew,

and consolidate the gifts according to diocesan norms and procedures. Such basketsshould be sanitized in between Masses.

• Encourage the use of EFT for offertory gifts.• There is to be no offertory procession of any kind.

The Sign of Peace

• Whenever the sign of peace is exchanged, it should be done without any touch orshaking of hands.

• Some gestures that might be used are a smile, eye contact, a simple bow of the head,or a wave.


Reception of Communion

• Distribution of Communion apart from the Mass, unless in the case of grave illnessor viaticum with the anointing of the sick, is discouraged.

• Communion should be received at the normal time, as part of the Communion Riteat Mass, with the following temporary mandates:• The priest/deacon/extraordinary ministers should practice good hygiene before,

during and after Mass. All who distribute Holy Communion should discreetly usehand sanitizer (or if possible, wash their hands) before the CommunionProcession.

• If a priest or deacon is a member of a vulnerable group, an extraordinary ministermay distribute communion instead.

• All who distribute Holy Communion must wear a mask and/or a face shield forthe duration of the Communion Procession.

• The procession should form slowly, with six feet between those awaiting receptionof Communion. Floor markings may be helpful closer to the altar (4-5 spaces) andushers should help to maintain this distance.• Parishioners should remain masked until it is time for them to receive, and then

return immediately to the mask.• Distribution of the Precious Blood is suspended.• As a temporary measure due to the current pandemic, Communion is to be

distributed in the hand only, not on the tongue. This is in service of the commongood (See above, Canon 223).• For those who do not wish to receive on the hand, spiritual communion remains a

valid alternative.• For proper reception on the hand, appeal to Saint Cyril of Jerusalem:

• Ministers and communicants alike must be instructed in this method of reception.• The exact hand is not what matters, but that the “throne” must be flat, a secure

place to receive Communion.


Approaching, then, do not come with your hands extended or with your fingers open. But make a throne with your left hand for the right, as intending to receive the King, and having made a hollow in your hand, receive the body of Christ, after which you say “Amen.”

— Mystagogical Catecheses, 5.21

• Ministers should not place communion in the hand, risking touch, but rather“drop” the consecrated host from a few inches above the hand.

• The usual formula is to be used (V. “The Body of Christ” R. “Amen.”)• The use of gloves (for reception or administration of communion) and/or tongs or

other devices is prohibited and does not decrease the risk of contagion. Again, thecleanliness of the minister’s hands is crucial.

• Following communion, any remaining consecrated hosts should be brought backto the altar, placed on it, and consolidated by the deacon or priest. Only one personshould repose them in the tabernacle.• In keeping with established norms, care should be taken to ensure that an

appropriate number of hosts is consecrated for consumption at a particularliturgy and that the tabernacle has a minimal number reserved for the sick.

Fellowship

At this time, fellowship is to be discouraged in all forms, including greeting the people at the doors of the church by the celebrant after Mass. This could encourage gatherings larger than the allowable limit. This may be revised as medical/civil guidance is revised.

Leaving the Church

• As in the beginning of Mass, there should be a simple procession from thesanctuary to the sacristy by the priest alone.

• Celebrants/ministers should not greet people at the door, as this may encouragegathering in close proximity.

• Ushers or other ministers of hospitality that have been trained should assist in thedismissal of the congregation

• After the final blessing, those in the rear of the church should be invited to leave inan orderly fashion and proceed immediately to the exits, one pew/household at atime, with proper spacing until the church has been emptied.

• It is suggested that refuse receptacles be provided at the exits for disposableworship aids, personal protective equipment, or other items that the faithfulshould not leave behind

• Hand sanitizer should also be available near the exits.• Bulletins may be printed, but consider a method of delivery that reduces contact.

• Encourage parishioners to visit the parish website or bulletin company website;consider email distribution lists to send more regular communications.

• All vessels should continue to be purified and then washed in warm, soapy water.• Vestments, especially those shared among clergy, should be regularly cleaned.


Sacrament of Reconciliation

• The Sacrament of Penance will be made available to people, where possible.• Individual confession is the ordinary manner of celebrating the Sacrament.• Communal Penance Services are prohibited at this time.• General Absolution is not permitted.

• As always, the priest should take great care to ensure that the conversation withthe penitent remains absolutely confidential.

• A priest can establish an area for confessions in an open area of the church orchurch hall, or a Reconciliation room with adequate space for distancing.

• A church rectory cannot be used for confessions.• A priest confessor and the penitent should both wear a mask since by nature

confession occurs in a close setting.• Confessions outside of the church may be offered - penitents remain in their cars

with the car window open while the priest hears their confession from a six-footdistance.

• Proper sanitization of any areas or surfaces touched by penitent is necessary aftereach confession.

• The Sacrament of Penance cannot be celebrated by cell phone, FaceTime, Zoom orany other video conferencing technology. Cell phones and any other electronicdevices (with the exception of a hearing aid) should also not be used to amplifythe voice of either the confessor or penitent.

• Even though the Sacrament of Penance is available, the faithful are encouraged tofollow the directives of the Holy See regarding perfect contrition.

• We also call to mind the fact that the Penitential Act at Mass forgives venial sins.

COVID-19 REOPENING PLAN —� —10 REV. 5/20/2020

People who cannot get to confession because of the coronavirus lockdown or another serious reason can go to God directly, be specific about their sins, request pardon and experience God's loving forgiveness, Pope Francis said.

"This is the right time, the opportune moment. An act of contrition done well, and our souls will become white like the snow," the pope said March 20 during his livestreamed morning Mass.

— Catholic News Service, March 20, 2020.

With the national and statewide conversation regarding the COVID-19 pandemic now focused on “reopening” businesses, many people in the Diocese of Buffalo are wondering when the suspension of public Masses will be lifted. The diocese encompasses two regional councils — Western New York and the Finger Lakes, because of this, it is necessitates that any plans be implemented locally by vicariates and parish leaders, in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil directives.

We are thankful for the technology that has kept parishes connected, however, the Diocese of Buffalo fully recognizes the faithful’s strong desire to return to parishes and to receive the Eucharist – which is our Spiritual life-blood.

While the specifics of “when” and “how” public Masses will resume are still being determined, these directives will be important to consider for parish staff and parishioners:

1. The general dispensation from Sunday Mass obligation will remain in place.

Regardless of when restrictions are lifted in a specific region in the Diocese of Buffalo, Catholics will continue to be dispensed from the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays, in particular those who are most vulnerable or at-risk groups who will feel it is safer to stay home than attend Mass. The faithful are encouraged to keep the Sabbath holy by participating in a parish livestream Mass or utilizing Catholic Television.

2. Mandated and temporary Liturgical changes will be in place.

Like dioceses across the country, there will be guidelines established once individual church will be allowed to begin worship again. The goal of these regulation is to maintain the integrity of the liturgy, while addressing the current needs of the wider community in the interest of public health and safety.

Planning for the Future:What to Expect When Public Masses Resume

3. Live-streaming should continue due to attendance limitations. No one should expect to be able to attend Mass with regularity, so for parishes who are currently live-streaming Masses will be encouraged to continue to doing so.

4. Social distancing will continue to be maintained.

The recommended social distancing guideline of six feet will need to be respected when entering and leaving a church, as well as in regards to seating and a potential Communion procession. Parishioners would be required to wear a mask and anyone who is showing any symptoms of sickness will be told to stay home. Social gatherings before or after Mass will also not be permitted.

5. Safety concerns, in addition to the virus itself, will determine the timeline going forward. During Mass on April 28, 2020, Pope Francis prayed for prudence as communities begin lifting their lockdowns. The Holy Father said, “At this time, when we are beginning to receive instructions for coming out of quarantine, we pray that the Lord would give his people – all of us – the grace of prudence and obedience to the instructions so that the pandemic does not return.” As this process unfolds, there will certainly be challenges but the safety of our community will remain the benchmark. As the Diocese moves forward it requests that parishioners stay informed and stay flexible to any updates.

By working together, the Diocese of Buffalo is hopeful that people will soon be able to return to our churches, even if in a limited capacity, with the important understanding that things will not immediately be going back to normal.

Mary Immaculate Parishmaryimmaculateny.org/bulletins/2020-05-24.pdf · Mary Immaculate Parish St. Mary’s Seventh Sunday of Easter Immaculate Conception 11095 St. Mary’s St. May

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