Spring Covid Update

03-18-2021Weekly ReflectionAnna Hoffman

Dear Parishioners,

Over the past couple of weeks, we have noticed an increase in Mass attendance, especially at the 10:00 am Mass.  We see this as a good sign that people are feeling encouraged about returning to the celebration of the Eucharist and we anticipate that attendance will continue to rise, especially as we approach Holy Week, Easter Season, and summer.

Although the capacity limitations set forth by the Diocese of Phoenix have not changed, the overarching goal is to adapt and accommodate the increase in attendance with joy and hospitality!  Beginning this weekend, there will be some minor modifications to allow for more people to be seated in the church.

For the pews in the West section of the church, facing the altar, every other pew will still be blocked off.  However, the tape in the middle of those pews will be removed to allow open seating for the entire pew.  Please expect that you may be seated next to someone closer than six feet if you are in this section.  We have found that the tape in these pews seems to be moved, modified, and removed on a regular basis already.

For now, the separation in the pews on the North and South sections of the church will remain the same for those who desire formalized distancing measures.  We have also added more chairs to the perimeter of the church.  If you are comfortable sitting closer to others, please be seated in the West section to allow space for those who desire the physical distance barriers. 

Several factors will impact the church in Flagstaff over the coming months; expected increase in tourism, summer residents returning to the region, and the steady advance toward herd immunity for our community will all play a role in Mass attendance.  It will be important for all of us to increase our awareness that many people are returning to Mass in person after having been away for a time.  Please welcome all persons coming to Mass and joyfully make room!  If you are a single person or a couple, please move to the center of the pew to allow others to easily see space available at the ends.  We know it seems natural to sit at the end of the pew when you arrive, but in the interest of hospitality, we ask that you make this accommodation if you are able.  You may also notice in the coming months that taped areas in the pews may change to meet our growing attendance.  If you have a question about seating, please consult with an usher or staff member, who will do their best to help seat you comfortably for Mass.

We recognize some parishioners may still have concerns regarding their safety from COVID-19 exposure.  Persons must continue to stay home if they are immune compromised or feeling ill, wash/sanitize hands often, wear face coverings (double mask if you feel the need), physically distance, obtain a vaccination if desired, etc.; and, through all these combined efforts, it is our hope that you feel safe when attending Mass in person at SFDA and are able to be attentive to the liturgy and receiving our Lord Jesus in the Eucharist.  However, if it becomes untenable for you to attend Mass in person, keep in mind that Bishop Olmsted’s dispensation from the Sunday Mass obligation is still in effect and SFDA parish continues to offer live streaming of all Sunday Masses on our YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/sanfranciscodeasis, and reception of Holy Communion after the 4:30 pm Vigil Mass.

Above all, it is important to remember that Bishop Olmsted has asked that Christian charity prevail in these difficult circumstances.  Please treat each other, our clergy and staff members, ushers, and volunteers who have dedicated themselves to serving the church during this time with kindness and respect as we endeavor to foster an atmosphere that provides hope, healing, and hospitality while we stay safe, healthy, and holy.

Sincerely,
Anna Garcia Hoffman, Parish Manager