Sunday Indoor Masses

Dear Parishioners,

We have reached a milestone in our journey through the Pandemic. As you may be aware, Tuesday, June 15, 2021, the State of California lifts a number of restrictions pertaining to the use of masks and social distancing. It is understandable that you have questions about what this all means for us at Saint Mark, right now. I am writing to you today about some practical implications for the liturgies in our parish.

The new guidelines ease the mandate on wearing face-masks, but require now that anyone who is unvaccinated continue to wear a mask at all times indoors, and outdoors when social distancing is not possible. Vaccinated individuals have the option of wearing or not wearing a mask indoors or outdoors. Clergy, staff and volunteers will continue to wear masks when not socially distancing.

In anticipation of the relaxation of the health guidelines, the Archdiocese of Los Angeles has been preparing for the resumption of Sunday Masses indoors beginning Sunday, June 20, 2021. However, during this past year, many have grown accustomed to coming to Mass and staying in the comfort and safety of their cars. We want to aid everyone, vaccinated or not, in transitioning back into the pews and feel comfortable and welcomed participating in Mass.

During this transition period, our Ministers of Hospitality will allot for a small gap between households on available pews. Hand sanitizer will be available at all the entrances, restrooms, and in the middle aisle during communion. Additionally, for parishioners not yet ready to be indoors, the FM radio transmission will continue to be available.

We encourage all of our parishioners to be mindful of your neighbor. Many individuals have lost someone or something during the pandemic, and this change may cause fear and anxiety. Despite the progress in the fight against Covid-19, the pandemic is ongoing. Please support this process of transition by being supportive and reassuring with one another.

 

The following guidelines may help to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone attending Mass: 

 

Health Alert:
Effective Saturday, July 16, 2021, at 11:59 pm, a face mask is required to be worn at all times indoors, regardless of vaccination status. Additionally, masks are required for unvaccinated individuals outdoors when social distancing is not possible.

Preparation and arrival:

• Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the start of mass.
• ENTER the parking lot through the driveway nearest the school on Coeur D'Alene Ave.
• Please follow the instructions of our Ministers of Hospitality in the parking lot.
• Pedestrians: Enter the parking lot through the gate near the Church Patio.
• A limited number of handicap spaces are available on the Garfield side of the parking lot. 
• Entrance into the Church will be through the door nearest the restrooms and the door by the Sacristy on the Garfield side.
• Please bring your copy of the missal. Additional missals are available in the pews.

• Seating will be first come, first seated.
• Ministers of Hospitality will guide you to available seating.
• Liturgical singing is allowed.

• There will be two lines for communion beginning from the back to the front
• The Communion Procession starts after the dialog "Behold the Lamb of God..."
• Hand sanitizer will be available in the center aisle for your convenience.
• Communion will be brought to those who choose to remain in their car.