St. Mary Catholic Church - Lampasas, TX

Pastoral Letter to the Faithful of the Diocese of Austin
April 30, 2020
 
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ:
 
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant hardship to our diocese, nation, and world. Sadly, many people have died, and many are sick and suffering from the virus. Also, many are struggling financially and burdened with the reality of isolation and fear.
 
As Catholics, we have endured the suspension of Mass and the sacraments. I have heard from many of you who have expressed your hunger for the Eucharist and the need for the spiritual strength received at Mass. The sacrifices you have made are truly acts of charity and witness to the sanctity of human life.
 

Based on the latest data and information from government and public health authorities, I am now ready to move forward in reopening our churches for the celebration of the sacraments. Reopening will be done in a careful and phased manner, following commendations to businesses and institutions. I have provided our priests with protocols to guide them with the necessary steps to reopen. I am confident that our priests will be careful and measured in implementing these protocols.
 
Therefore, today I issued a decree that public Masses will resume effective May 5, 2020. Of important note, my dispensation of the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and other holy days of obligation remains in effect. I do this out of concern for the elderly, those with underlying health conditions, and the sick who are at higher risk in contracting COVID-19. Furthermore, knowing that it will not be possible for all people to come to Mass on Sundays as we begin reopening, I ask that the faithful be patient and consider attending on a different day of the week. We are still limited in our ability to fully congregate, but it is important to me that the faithful have access to the Eucharist and Confession. Parishes will continue to livestream Mass for those who are unable to attend.
 
Brothers and sisters, I am grateful for your continued prayers, fidelity and patience during this unprecedented time in history. Throughout this difficult time, God continues to accompany us; let us turn to Him to strengthen our faith and have confidence in his compassionate love for us.
 
This has also been a trying time for our priests, so I ask you to please join me in praying for them as they continue to serve you faithfully and in creative ways. Let us also remember in our prayers those who

caring for the sick and for those who are providing necessary services for the common good.
 
May the Risen Christ continue to strengthen us in hope, and may God keep us all united in his love.
 

Sincerely in Christ,
 
Most Reverend Joe S. Vásquez Bishop of Austin
 
JSV:mj
 
 

1. Approximately 50 parishioners will be seated on a first come first basis and all households who wish to sit together must arrive together. On Saturdays the church will open at 4:45 p.m. and Sundays at 9:00a.m.Only one door will be unlooked to enter the church.
2. Parishioners will be seated from front to back following social distancing guidelines. Parishioners will not be allowed to change seats or select their own seats.
3. Parishioners will be required to sanitize upon entering the church and are highly encouraged to wear a mask.In the future this may become mandatory if conditions warrant by order of government, bishop, and or Pastor.
4. Mass will be dismissed using side and front doors, row by row directed by the ushers.
5. Collection baskets will not be passed around but there will be 1 basket placed in the back of the church for tithings and donations as you are seated.
6. Confessions will continue by appointment only.
7. If you are sick or showing any signs of the Flu, Corona Virus, or any other contagious illness please stay home and watch the Facebook live feed you are dispensed from the obligation to attend mass.
8. If you are not able to attend mass because the church is full then you are dispensed from the obligation to attend mass.
9. The Bishop Parishioners are encourage to not attend Mass and to remain at home: (i) those who are sick; (ii) those who are 65 or older; (iii) those who have been advised by health care workers or caregivers to not attend Mass; (iv) those who sincerely believe that attending Mass will jeopardize their health or the health of a person with whom they reside; and (v) those who sincerely believe that because of the limitations imposed by the temporary protocols attending Mass is not reasonable. You will be dispensed from the obligation to attend mass.
10. Tuesday will resume normal mass schedules times.Until we no longer have to follow the temporary protocols all masses will be in the main sanctuary.The chapel will only be used for private prayer 24/7
11. Bishop Vásquez expects that we observe public health guidelines and use the best prudential judgment in making this a joyful return for you the parishioners.
12. As the pastor, I have missed you!Mass has not been the same without you there.My primary concern is not only to have you back in the Church, but to make sure we do so in a prudential and safe manner for all our parishioners. High risk or not.If you have any questions or concerns about the temporary protocolsplease feel free to call me Fr Paul.