August 13, 2020
COVID-19 Update
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A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon beneath her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars.
Revelation 12:1
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Dear Friends in Christ,
Some important policy updates today. Singers & musicians must now wear masks when singing at Mass, and attendance records must be kept for parish meetings and events. See below for details. In addition, find a summary of the Archbishop’s bi-weekly meeting with his priests held Tuesday, a workplace safety video, and other important information. Please check the headings below. This Saturday, August 15 is the Solemnity of the Assumption. We celebrate the assumption of the Blessed Mother, body and soul, into heaven, and we ask for her continued intercession on our behalf.
Archbishop Sample
Archbishop Sample held his bi-weekly meeting with priests on Tuesday. The annual priests’ convocation will not be held in-person this year. Instead, the priests will likely have a virtual gathering. Regarding Catholic schools, the Archbishop has not yet announced a definitive decision regarding in-person instruction. Both the Archbishop and the Superintendent would like to allow in-person schooling if possible. The Archbishop has engaged the Table Group (connected with The Amazing Parish) to help him with strategic planning for the Pastoral Center. His goal is to build a unified team of staff that is mission oriented and effective. Good communication will be key to a successful effort. Regarding parish life, the Archbishop encouraged pastors and priests to move forward with parish activities, including in-person gatherings for all ages while observing the health and safety restrictions of the state. Wherever possible, we need to prudently proceed with the life of the Church. Evangelization is our essential mission. In these unique times, we may need to focus our efforts on strengthening the faith of our own people so they are ready to witness to others. The Church may become poorer and smaller, but more fervent. When society discovers it’s need for God, they will look to us. The times are tough for all of us. We’re all trying to do the best we can in these challenging times. The Archbishop thanked his priests for doing such a tremendous job.
Livestream Schedule
Important Protocol & Policy Updates for COVID-19
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Masks Required for Singers & Musicians – Singers and musicians are now required to wear face coverings throughout Mass and other events, even when singing. The presider need not wear a face covering during Mass (except during the distribution of Holy Communion), and the lector need not wear a mask while reading at Mass. See full details in Aug. 13 Memo below.
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Meeting Attendance Records – Until further notice, attendance records must be kept for all parish meetings and events, including date, time & location plus first & last name and phone or email of all participants. The records must be kept for at least 60 days. Pre sign-ups, as required for Mass, are not needed for smaller gatherings. There must be a designated monitor for each gathering to ensure required protocols are followed, including face coverings, physical distancing, maximum numbers not exceeded, cleaning, etc. We are encouraging parishes to move forward with faith formation and other meetings important for parish life and the practice of the faith. See full details in Aug. 13 Memo below.
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Updated Policy FAQ August 13 MEMO
Solemnity of the Assumption, Aug. 15
Attention Priests: This year, the Assumption falls on a Saturday. All Masses celebrated on Saturday 15 August 2020 must be the Solemnity of the Assumption. All Masses celebrated on Sunday 16 August, can either be the Solemnity of the Assumption or 20th Sunday of Ordinary Time. The Saturday evening Mass of the Assumption fulfills the Sunday obligation. Please see full memo from the Office of Divine Worship: MEMO. One-time use worship aids are HERE (Spanish, English, PDF & Word).
Young Adults & the Church
Young adults need Christ and his Church, and the Church needs young adults. Young adults can be an after-thought sometimes and are not often on the radar screen of many parish leaders. As you prepare for ministry this fall, consider making a special outreach to young adults to participate in the life of the parish… as liturgical minister, pastoral council member, catechist, communications coordinator, small group leader or leader for works of mercy. Even if their commitment is for a short period of time, your invitation is a commitment to their “belonging” in the body of Christ. Check out ways to support Young Adults HERE.
Updated Budget Assumptions
Updated Budget Assumptions for fiscal year 2020-2021: MEMO
Workplace Safety Video
This 30 minute workplace safety Q & A video produced by Oregon OSHA on Covid-19 Workplace Safety may be helpful for parishes: http://dcbspage.org/LIVEQA
Next Mailing: Tuesday, August 18.
Sincerely in Our Lady,
Todd Cooper
COVID-19 Pastoral Center Response, Core Team Chair
Key Pastoral Resources
REMINDERS
Holy Family Catholic Clinic
August 31, 2020
Reopening Resources
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FAQ’s on requirements for Mass or church gatherings August 13 MEMO
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Face coverings required in churches statewide: More Info August 13 MEMO
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Plan for Limited Reopening of Masses (English/Spanish)
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Readiness Checklist – Use with above Plan
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Use of Satellite Sites for Mass: MEMO
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“Helpful Reminders” poster ENG/SPA for churches.
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Archdiocesan web resources: CLICK HERE.
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Information about Contract Tracing - HERE.
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Protocol for COVID-19 exposure at Mass: HERE
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FlockNote Mass Sign-Up, Tracking - How it works.
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CDC guidelines for faith communities
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Guidance for Faith-Based Gatherings in Phase II Counties: OHA FAQ HERE
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Phase Two Reopening Memo ENGLISH and SPANISH
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Guidelines for Returning to the Workplace - Find materials from OHA HERE
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CDC Guidelines for Daily Life
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