Dear brothers and sisters,
As you may know, Governor Greg Abbot announced that effective March 10th, the statewide mask mandate will be lifted and all businesses are allowed to operate at 100% capacity. In response, the Very Rev. James Misko, Vicar General of the Diocese of Austin has issued a statement:
"With today’s announcement by Governor Abbott that, effective March 10, he would be lifting the statewide mask mandate as well as allowing businesses to operate at 100% capacity, you will likely be looking for some direction. Please know that, until the current temporary protocols for the celebration of the sacraments are modified, you should continue following them as they currently read. Over the coming days, Bishop Vásquez and our leadership team will meet to discuss the governor’s announcement as it relates to our current temporary protocols. I will keep you apprised of any changes in the protocols that emerge from those deliberations. Again, in the meantime, the protocols that are in place remain so and should be followed."
In summary, right now health protocols for Mass and all other on-site meetings and activities at Christ the King will not be changed in any way. For Mass, we strongly encourage everyone to wear masks, use hand sanitizer when entering the sanctuary, space households six feet apart, and limit capacity to 50%. When visiting the parish office or meeting in any other parish facility, masks are required, as is using hand sanitizer and following social distance guidelines.
I thank you for continuing to comply with our current protocols. As we journey through this Lenten season, let us not allow the trials and tribulations of the pandemic to divide us, but rather let us unite our suffering to that of Jesus on the Cross.
Yours in Christ,
Fr. Sang Quan, Pastor