Diocese of Grand Island
Coronavirus COVID-19 – Phase IV Instructions
(Updated November 11, 2020)  

Latest COVID-19 Directives from Governor Ricketts

You may have heard that on Monday Gov. Pete Ricketts announced additional public health measures to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the state, which has seen surging numbers in the past six weeks.  Ricketts said masks must be worn at businesses when people are in close contact for at least 15 minutes. He said 6 feet of separation will be required at gyms, bars, restaurants and churches. People can sit with members of their household, Ricketts said. The new rules go into effect at midnight Wednesday (Nov. 11). They will be in effect through Nov. 30. 

Many of our parishes have relaxed their standards after the numbers of those infected with the virus decreased over the summer.  With numbers now soaring in Nebraska, especially in rural areas, it is important that we again close off every other pew, encourage the wearing of face coverings, provide hand sanitizer, and stay distanced from those who are not in our own household.

Finally, let us redouble our prayers for those who are hospitalized because of the virus and commend to the prayers of our parishioners all those doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, aids and medical staff members who are exhausted and overwhelmed by the heavy demands being placed upon them.

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General

• Dispensation from Sunday Obligation. ​ A  general dispensation will remain in effect.
• Risk. There is still a risk for anyone who attends a public Mass, even with the best health practices and strict social distancing.
• Limited attendance and social distancing. Families are asked to remain in their family group and maintain a six foot separation from others. Be prepared to wear a mask.
• Travel. Do not travel to another area to attend Mass.
• ​Patience. This is a sad and unfortunate way to celebrate Sunday Mass. Please remember the sacrifices we make are in the best interest of everyone.

Specific
-Those in the following high-risk categories are asked to stay home:

• the elderly,
• people with underlying medical conditions,
• family members who live with elderly or those who are at risk,
• people who have access to those at risk in hospital, nursing facilities, or assisted living,
• people who have upper respiratory or flu-like symptoms,
• people who live with someone with upper respiratory or flu-like symptoms,
• people with COVID-19 or those who live with someone with COVID-19,
• people exposed to someone with COVID-19.

Other specific considerations

• families are asked to remain in their pew throughout the entire Mass, with the exception of Holy Communion.
• children must remain with their families at all times.
• restrict restroom visitation if at all possible.
• only a general collection.
• no children's collection.
• Holy Communion under one species (bread only).
• Holy Communion is to be received in the hand.
• please stagger your departure following Mass.
• no social interaction before or following Mass.

From Father Mike-

• Social distancing and masks are both strongly encouraged.
• Hymnals are available to you for the taking. Each hymnal is yours to keep.
• The Kiss of Peace during Mass is reinstated. Please exchange a gesture of peace around you with maybe a wave, a nudge, or what have you. Family members may, of course, offer a gesture of physical contact with one another.
• Further adjustments will be made in light of health department recommendations and diocesan mandates.

Thank you for your understanding and your patience during this time. Please know we are all called to take care of one another in bringing forth a safe place to worship here at St. Patrick's.