Holy Rosary Church – Stuttgart issued the following announcement on July 11.
(en español abajo)
Friends, in light of the recent increase in COVID cases in our state and locally, I thought I’d offer a few reminders that might be helpful for us.
1. Remember that wearing masks in church is still recommended. When Bishop Taylor ended the mask requirement a few months ago, he encouraged us to continue wearing them, and so you should feel free to wear a mask. In fact, even if you received the vaccine, it might be wise to continue wearing a mask in order to protect those who cannot (such as children). Whatever choice an individual makes, I want to emphasize again the importance that we respect each other and do our best not to form opinions about them.
2. Remember that the COVID vaccines are effective and morally permissible to receive. The Church has been consistent about that latter point; our bishop, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, and even Pope Francis have said it is in fact praiseworthy to receive the vaccine in order to protect yourself and others. I know some have resisted getting it thus far, for various reasons, but I encourage you to receive it if you are able. I am happy to speak in person with anyone who has concerns about this.
3. Remember that if you or someone in your household becomes sick with COVID symptoms, or has a positive test, you should follow the Arkansas Department of Health guidelines related to quarantine and isolating from others. This includes staying home from Mass for the recommended time period. Please let me know if you do become sick so that we can pray for you, but we want you to get healthy before returning to be with us.
4. Remember that we remain morally obliged to attend Mass in person in Arkansas if we are healthy and not especially vulnerable (or caring for someone who is). The general dispensation that was in effect for much of last year (and is still in effect in other states) ended in our diocese last October. In light of the recent increase in cases, we need to continue to be prudent, but we also need to not opt out of our obligation to worship our God in the context of the liturgy. The reality is that we are far more vulnerable in places outside of church than within, especially if we are wearing a mask.
You might wish to read Bishop Taylor’s recent statement regarding the Delta variant, in which he makes several of the same points I did. You can find it here: https://mcusercontent.com/.../Delta_Variant_7.9.21_Final.pdf
Thanks for listening to these reminders, and please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. Be sure of my prayers for you, your families, and all who are suffering in different ways at this time.
In Christ,
Fr. Andrew Hart
Original source can be found here.
Source: Holy Rosary Church – Stuttgart
Alerts Sign-up