Dear Sisters and Brothers

Grace and peace, I hope this note finds you well. 

A number of queries are being received by Archbishop’s office so I am writing to re-iterate some guidelines. 

It is my expectation that by now every priest is vaccinated. 

It is important to limit movement in the Church and maintain good hygiene practices. 

This must be achieved by: 

1. Wearing a mask at all times, especially by those distributing Communion, including the Priest 
2. Regular sanitization of hands 
3. Continued omission of the Offertory Procession and Collections 
4. Strictly no Communion on the tongue 
5. Maintaining recommended social distancing e.g. within the Church and whilst going to Communion 
6. No communal gathering after Mass 
7. Maintaining QR Code compliance or collection of names and phone numbers of those attending.

Other Gatherings 

I would continue to encourage smaller gatherings in Parishes and Communities such as Children’s Liturgy of the Word, Parish Pastoral Council and Sacramental Programs that do not exceed 4 hours in length. It is important in these circumstances to maintain good hygiene practices. 

Visiting the Sick/Homebound and Hospitalised COVID parishioners 

1. It is also important to consider whether you continue to visit sick or homebound people in their homes. I would recommend this be limited to only urgent situations. 
2. If you have a parishioner who is in hospital and they need support including Sacramental care please contact our Catholic Chaplains at the relevant hospital. 

If you would like to discuss this, please feel free to call Sarah Moffatt, Director, Pastoral Life and Mission on 0439 218 859. 

In Domino,
+Patrick O'Regan
Archbishop of Adelaide