Current Pandemic Guidelines to Cease July 1st 2021

Dear Priests,

After consultation with the Presbyteral Council and the Diocesan Pastoral Council, I wish to inform you now that the current guidelines and restrictions for the Diocese of Wichita, concerning the pandemic will cease, with the sole exception of the distribution of Holy Communion under both forms, effective July 1, 2021.

It is evident that much of life has returned to “normal.”  I am therefore confident that we can completely return to the celebration of the Mass and other liturgical prayers as we were accustomed to before the pandemic began.

While these restrictions will no longer be in force across the diocese, it is important to know that some of our people may likely be challenged by this decision.  As pastors, I believe we should be sensitive to their concerns and respond as appropriately as we can.

I leave it to the discretion of each pastor to determine if or when to reinstate the offering of the sign of peace, which is optional in the liturgy.   I would however ask that until further notice, we refrain from offering the Precious Blood to the lay faithful, unless it is for those with gluten intolerance.   Priests will no longer be required to wear masks during the distribution of Holy Communion.

I wish to thank all of you for your diligence in implementing these guidelines and restrictions.  Let us continue to pray for the complete end of this pandemic here and around the world.  Thank you.

 

Bishop Carl A. Kemme