Please see below for specific guidelines.
Information regarding COVID-19 updates from the Diocese of Trenton can be found here:
https://dioceseoftrenton.org/news/revisions-of-current-covid-protocols
*Please keep in mind that each parish will operate differently based on their specific location’s needs and abilities.
LINKS
St. Catharine Church- https://venue.streamspot.com/93d8764d
St. Margaret Church- https://venue.streamspot.com/85b923a3
SCS Playground (Facebook)- https://www.facebook.com/stcatharinestmargaret
08/18/2021
Dear Parishioners,
• On July 28, NJ Governor Murphy and NJ Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli issued a “strong recommendation (not a mandate) that both vaccinated and unvaccinated residents wear masks in indoor settings when there is a risk.”
• The Diocese of Trenton encourages (not mandates) consideration of this strong recommendation at this time; if circumstances trend/change in a negative direction, a further determination will be made and announced. The Diocese leaves the judgment in individual parishes to the pastors to determine any further, more local or on-site direction.
• As a consequence of the above. I recommend that everyone coming to church gives serious consideration to wearing masks indoors.
• However, at present, this is not an obligation and I will leave the choice to each individual.
For those nervous about worshiping indoors let me remind you that we still have two outdoor masses available on weekends at 5 PM on Saturday and 10 AM on Sundays at the St. Catharine School Playground. We will also continue to stream our weekday and Sunday Masses. Please check our website for links.
Please know we are working diligently to ensure that we have a vibrant liturgical and pastoral year to celebrate in the year ahead. I will continue to update you as information or circumstances change. Please continue to pray for our Parish that God will bless us and protect us.
With Love and Blessings,
Fr Damian
Effective May 28, 2021, N.J. Gov. Phil Murphy lifted the mandates requiring the wearing of masks and social distancing. Yet, recognizing that the COVID-19 pandemic remains active, wearing a mask is an option for those who wish to do so. Moreover, those who are not fully vaccinated are strongly encouraged to wear a mask. Consequently, all ribbons will be removed from the pews in both churches, except a small area reserved for those who choose to maintain social distancing. Masks no longer have to be worn. However, all ministers of Holy Communion should wear masks while distributing the Holy Eucharist. Parish meetings, ministries, and socials may resume.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we return to the full pastoral life of the church. Looking forward to seeing you all, especially those who have had to worship virtually.