Dear Parishioners and Friends,
St. Mark Parish is committed to provide a welcoming and safe environment, and to offer an inspiring worship experience for our parishioners and guests. Our Pastoral Team has been here for you during the entire period of the pandemic – generously serving the needs of our community. As a parish family we are called to “welcome, love, and serve.” Together we proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ!
Following the CDC and State of Michigan COVID-19 guidelines, the Archdiocese of Detroit has recently amended various “liturgical protocols.” As in the past, we are asked to use our best judgement and consider specific needs and situation of our parish community. It is imperative that we remain vigilant, are committed to common good, and make every effort to care for and protect everyone; especially, the most vulnerable among us.
I believe that our liturgical protocols and parish office practices have served us well, and we will continue to follow them into the foreseeable future. However, after a prayerful discernment, beginning the weekend of June 26/27:
1. Masks/face coverings will be optional – regardless of whether you are vaccinated or not vaccinated.
2. The pews will remain marked out with tape, and we will continue to practice “social distance.” Our spacious church should provide enough “safety and comfort space” for everyone.
3. We will not divide the church into the “masked and un-masked” sections.
4. Eucharistic Ministers will continue to wear masks during the distribution of Holy Communion, and sanitize their hands.
5. We will disinfect the church after every service.
Nothing is written in stone. Things will evolve and practices may need to be modified. I ask for your understanding and patience. I am grateful to all of you for your kindness and gracious cooperation, as we journey together as a parish family.
In Christ’s abundant Life,
Fr. Stanley