Funeral Re-opening Guidelines As of May 21, 2020

September 27, 2020
Dear Parishioners,

While we are saddened by your loss and sensitive to your emotions, we also understand that it is not yet safe for all to join us, due to the COVID-19 virus.

Our Funeral process will be different – we ask for your patience and understanding as we strive to meet the requirements set forth by the State of Massachusetts, as well as the Archdiocese of Boston. Above all, we are committed to doing all we can to provide spaces where we can all worship safely.

Here are some of the guidelines all must abide by:

• If you or any guest is sick – in any way – please stay home.
• All MUST wear masks – with the exception of children under 2; children between 2 and 5 based on parental decision and those with medical reasons.
• One person can read a eulogy maintaining the guideline of 5 minutes or less.
• We ask everyone to bring a personal bottle of sanitizer for use before/after Communion. ALL who choose to receive Communion will receive in the hand (while wearing masks, but not gloves) then move to a designated spot where mask may be slipped down to consume the Host. Mask must be replaced and then return to the pew.
• All must remain socially distant. A family [that lives together] may sit together in one pew, but all others must be 6 feet apart. Blue tape will mark the 6 feet on the pews.
• All spots will be marked with tape.
• We are limited to NO MORE THAN 40% Capacity OR the capacity able to remain socially distant – whichever is LESS. An approximate number of people allowed is to be determined based on guests and necessary distancing.
• Church will be sanitized after the funeral by a staff member.
• All staff members will perform a temperature check on each other before entering the church.

We understand that these guidelines may not be what you anticipated for your family member's funeral, but as we navigate this new territory, we need to abide by these guidelines to keep parishioners and staff safe.

Thank you and God Bless!
Fr. Jack