COVID-19 Protocols and Guidelines

Dear St. Paul Catholic Center community,

In light of the recent changes in guidelines from the CDC and the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, we have reviewed and revised our COVID-related protocols here at St. Paul Catholic Center. As part of our review, we have, in addition to the directives of the CDC and the Archdiocese, taken into consideration the needs of our community, the rates of vaccination in Bloomington and Monroe County, the local health guidelines, and the announcement that all students, faculty, and staff of IU will be vaccinated in the coming weeks. 

As we share these new guidelines with you, we, again, remind you of our shared responsibility to make St. Paul’s a safe, welcoming place for people to worship God, celebrate the Sacraments, and join together as a community. 

Therefore, effective immediately, the wearing of face coverings is now strongly encouraged at liturgical celebrations at St. Paul Catholic Center until further notice. Social distancing is also encouraged. For those who desire more space, we will leave every other pew closed on the Holy Family and choir sides of the Church. 

Additionally, the general dispensation from Mass attendance on Sundays and holy days of obligation is lifted effective Friday, June 11. Except for the unique situations as described below, those who are otherwise healthy are obliged to return to Sunday Mass by the weekend of June 12-13, 2021:
•    Those who are seriously ill, exhibit flu-like symptoms and/or may have a contagious disease (including quarantine due to exposure).
•    Those who are unable to attend Mass through no fault of their own (e.g. transportation issue).
•    Those who are homebound and/or incapacitated due to age, infirmity and/or medical restrictions.
•    Those who have compromised health conditions and/or at high risk of contracting the virus. 
•    Those who are caretakers of person who are sick or of persons at high-risk of serious illness if they contract Covid virus.
If you have any questions about any specific needs, concerns or protocols, please contact one of the priests directly. The St. Paul priests, who have the authority to dispense in individual cases, may be helpful in addressing individual fears and concerns.

Sincerely yours in Christ,
Fr. Patrick