Queens, St. Mary’s to Resume Masses May 18

(May 14, 2020 6:35 PM) The Catholic Diocese of Lansing today published guidelines aimed at assisting parishes to safely re-open public Masses by the end of the month.  This week, two Jackson Catholic parishes announced they would begin Mass services on May 18.  Queen of the Miraculous Medal and St. Mary Star of the Sea pastors told parishioners Masses would begin with restrictions.

“The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is the most “essential service” ever gifted to humanity,” said Jeremy Priest, Director of Worship for the Diocese of Lansing.

“These new guidelines will help parishes take small but sure and certain steps in the coming days and weeks towards safely resuming public Masses in a prudent and sensible way and with a commitment to the highest standards of public health,” said Fr. Priest.

Beginning on Monday, May 18, parishes across the Diocese of Lansing will be able to welcome a maximum of 5% of their church’s seating capacity for daily Masses, Monday to Saturday. Parishes are encouraged to be creative and apostolic in how they allocate these places at Holy Mass.

At Queen of the Miraculous Medal Parish, parishioners are invited to sign up via online form by the desired date. St. Mary Star of the Sea Parish is issuing invitations to specific mass times, alphabetically going through the parish directory.

Only weekday masses are being allowed by the Diocese, with churches remaining closed on Sundays.

The Diocese said, “Today’s guidelines set out the safety and hygiene expectations that will accompany that gradual return of Mass including the practicing of social distancing and rigorous sanitation measures including the wearing of face masks. Parishes are also highly encouraged to continue offering livestream Masses online.”

Friday, May 29, public Masses are due to return to the Diocese of Lansing.  The number of those able to attend increases from 5% to a maximum of 25% of a church’s seating capacity.

The obligation upon all Catholics to attend Sunday Mass remains suspended across the Diocese of Lansing until, at least, July 31.

* To read the Diocese of Lansing Guidelines in full click here.

Governor Whitmer’s orders have exempted places of worship from penalties attached to her ban on gatherings.  Last week the exemption extended to individuals traveling to and attending services.