Updated September 22, 2021
Welcome back!
I would like to take this opportunity to personally welcome you back to Mass and to a renewal of your spiritual life.
Our communities are beginning to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, but it will take time to heal from the pandemic’s toll on people’s health, welfare and economic well-being.
Take heart and remember the words of Our Lord: “I am with you always, until the end of the age” (Mt 28:20). God is indeed with us – always present in the Eucharist and eager to welcome us back into His Love.
Let us make a special effort to do the same by inviting those who do not yet know the love of God to join us.
Obligation to attend Sunday Mass reinstated
The general obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and holy days of obligation in the Diocese of Charlotte was reinstated effective on Pentecost Sunday, May 23, 2021. However, some important exemptions remain. Read more.
Be aware of local health protocols
Rising community spread of COVID-19 due to the Delta variant has prompted many local communities to reinstate health measures such as mandated face coverings indoors and social distancing – in many cases, regardless of individuals’ vaccine status. Exemptions for indoor worship services and other religious activities may not be included in such local mandates. Among the latest public health mandates is a requirement for most people to wear face coverings indoors, which took effect Sept. 22 and impacts all churches and Catholic schools in Mecklenburg County.
Father Patrick Winslow, vicar general and chancellor of the diocese, urged pastors in a recent letter to “remain attentive to any local face covering rules and other health measures put in place by your local officials and health departments. Manage and adjust your particular safety precautions based on your prudential judgment and pastoral needs, and continue offering accompaniment and care to those who are vulnerable or fearful. Above all, we must continue encouraging the faithful to remain close to Jesus who sustains us especially during difficult times such as this.”
Guidance from the Diocese of Charlotte Chancery to all churches:
Chancery Guidance for Local Mask Mandates, 8-20-21
Return to Normal Operations 5-14-21
Bishop Jugis offers guidance on COVID-19 vaccines
Unable to attend Mass in person?
If you are unable to attend Mass under the circumstances described above, you are encouraged to make a Spiritual Communion:
My Jesus,
I believe that You are present in the Most Holy Sacrament.
I love You above all things,
and I desire to receive You into my soul.
Since I cannot at this moment receive You sacramentally,
come at least spiritually into my heart.
I embrace You as if You were already there
and unite myself wholly to You.
Never permit me to be separated from You.
Amen.
Faith Formation Resources
The Diocese of Charlotte Office for Faith Formation is providing online resources for individuals and parents who wish to stay engaged in the spiritual development of their children.
North Carolina updates
Public Health Resources
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The Diocese of Charlotte continues to monitor this evolving public health threat closely, and we remain committed to keeping you informed. This information will be updated as needed.
— Diocese of Charlotte Communications Office
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