COVID-19 Policies

Along with the other parishes of the Diocese, Saint Martha has been open for weekend liturgies since the weekend of May 30-31.During that time, we have enforced a mask requirement, as well as social distancing. Once we are in the pews and properly spaced, we stay there -- Communion is brought to the people in the pews.

These measures were put in place with the full expectation that, from time to time, someone who had been exposed (someone who had been in close contact with a person who is positive for the virus) or even someone who was himself or herself positive would come to church. Everyone knew that this could happen without any person's fault, since one can contract the virus and be asymptomatic for a time, or even remain asymptomatic.

Today, we received a reminder of the necessity to remain vigilant, and not relax our guard. A parishioner who came to Mass this weekend began experiencing mild symptoms this morning and, out of caution, obtained a test. It came back positive. Of course, the person (and household) is now in self-quarantine. It is a tremendous source of comfort to know that no one at the Mass was "exposed" -- no one from outside the person's household was sitting within six feet and everyone wore masks.

It is ESSENTIAL that we not allow the weariness of these long months to fool us into growing lax in our safety measures. Until the vaccine arrives, distancing, masks, and prudent caution remain imperative.

God bless you all!

frmike