September 7, 2020
Dear Friends,
Shortly before I left the Parish for my spinal fusion surgery, I had a discussion with our Staff regarding the “changing” San Diego County guidelines and our Diocese’s response to those directives regarding the celebration of Mass in light of COVID-19.
It was my decision that it would be best to continue our present practice of celebrating Mass outdoors on the Plaza until the end of September, at which time we will assess the pandemic situation in our County and review the County’s directives and our Diocese’s response to those directives.
At the present time, everything seems to be so “fluid.” First, we were able to gather “indoors,” and then, we were told that we could not gather “indoors, but could gather “outdoors.” Then discussion seemed to center on the possibility of returning “indoors.”
In light of these “fluid” guidelines, it makes it very difficult for the Staff and the Parishioners to adapt to these changing guidelines depending on the daily/weekly update of statistics regarding the virus and the number of people who are proving to be positive with the symptoms of the virus.
With this in mind, in order to create a sense of stability, we will continue the present arrangement of Masses outdoors on the Plaza.
Also, it is important to know that more people can attend a Mass outdoors on the Plaza than can attend Mass in Church.
As we near the end of September, we will re-assess our situation to see how we will move into the future.
Your understanding and cooperation is most appreciated!
Once again, I want to thank you for your thoughts and prayers as I move through my journey of healing regarding my spinal fusion surgery.
Nine days were spent in the hospital. I am now in a skilled nursing facility, and I hope to be home, at the rectory, in the very near future.
In Christ,
Fr. Mike
