St. Joseph's Church, School & Daycare

The last weekend of May brings us to the great feast of Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles and the Blessed Mother and Christ’s Church was given life! It is fitting that this is also the first weekend that public Masses will resume throughout the southern half of Wisconsin, with our Diocese joining the Archdiocese of Milwaukee and Diocese of LaCrosse.

The Bishop has issued guidelines to our priests and parish leaders intended to lessen the risk of exposure to the Coronavirus. Many of these have to do with sanitation of the church, wearing masks, sanitizing hands, and physical distancing. Each Catholic parish is able to celebrate Mass
with 25% of the church’s capacity (so we can keep physical distancing). Families may sit together.

No one has to come to Mass. In fact, we encourage those who are at-risk (such as parishioners over 65 years old and those with underlying health conditions) and those feeling ill to stay home. Some think it’s too early to gather in a crowded room and want to stay home for their family’s safety. That’s okay, too. Bishop Hying’s dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass remains in force, so you don’t have to worry that you will commit a sin by missing Mass. Many parishes will continue livestreaming Masses, too.

One of the most notable aspects of the guidelines is the suspension of singing by the choir and congregation until further notice (cantors and organists/pianists can provide music). Initial studies show that singers are “super-secretors” and are more likely to spread, as well as get, the infection. There will be a more detailed article in the Catholic Herald this week. Many Dioceses around the country are applying this same guideline out of an abundance of caution for our
congregation’s safety.

On Pentecost Sunday, pray to the Holy Spirit and ask for his protection, wisdom and guidance. Ask him to quietly guide you every day. Ask him to rid the world of this virus, and ask for him quickly usher in God’s Kingdom.