May 18, 2021
Bishop Richard F. Stika has lifted mask mandates for all Masses in the Diocese of Knoxville beginning this weekend, May 22-23, which is Pentecost Sunday.
“Effective this weekend, the use of face masks by parishioners during Mass will be optional,” Bishop Stika said. “This decision wasn’t made lightly, and it comes after consulting with medical professionals who live in the diocese and after reviewing much of the data on vaccination and infection rates. Our parishes will remain diligent in making sure we can worship in a clean and safe environment — but I think it’s time we eliminate the mask requirement.”
The mask mandate was among a series of updated COVID-19 safety protocols outlined in a decree issued by Bishop Stika on May 18, the seventh such proclamation issued by the Bishop since the pandemic began in March 2020. The new protocols also include updates on the distribution of Holy Communion and reaffirm the decision to reduce social distancing in pews to 3-feet.
“At the discretion of the pastor, each parish may, but isn’t required, to set aside a small section in the church for those parishioners who desire to wear a mask and maintain 6-feet social distancing,” Bishop Stika added.
Bishop Stika previously announced that the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation in the Diocese of Knoxville also begins this weekend, May 22-23.
However, he said the obligation “does not apply to those who are ill, those who have reason to believe they were recently exposed to COVID-19 or another serious or contagious illness, those who are confined to their home, a hospital, or a nursing facility, those who care for the sick, the infirm, and the homebound, those who are unable to attend Mass through no fault of their own, those with underlying health conditions or in a high-risk category, and those who have significant fear or anxiety of COVID-19 exposure by attending Mass.”
Read the May 18 decree here.
As you know we have removed the Holy Water from our church, but if you'd like to have Holy Water for your home, please give us a call and stop by, Father Mike is happy to perform the ritual and Blessing!
Learn more about the use of Holy Water: https://www.sistersofcarmel.com/about-holy-water/
If you are an older parishioner who would like someone to run errands for your household, or a younger parishioner who is able to help those in need, please call our parish office 423-476-8123.
Some of our more seasoned parish members may be understandably fearful of going out to do basic everyday errands (like go to the grocery store) and may not have anyone to help them. We would like to compile a list of younger parishioners (you be the judge) willing and able to assist the older members of our community. If you would like to help, please call our parish office and add your name to the list. 423-476-8123
To all our senior members, you are treasured, and we want to serve you. You are not forgotten. Please contact our parish office if you need help with errands during this time 423-476-8123