After reviewing the guidelines in consideration of our particular circumstances and discussing them with the Diocese, it has been determined that it will be impossible to reopen St. Anthony’s before my retirement date of June 30, 2020. The process for reopening will be the work of the next pastor/administrator following July 1, 2020.

There are many levels involved in the reopening process including a large enough space for social distancing, trained committees for crowd control and sanitation before and after each service, a ventilated space, ample supply of masks, sanitizers, etc. There is much groundwork to be done on how to implement and adhere to the new government and diocesan policies during liturgies, particularly when addressing the practice of receiving communion and sacramental celebrations. All sacramental celebrations in this Diocese, including First Communions,Confirmations, RCIA, and Ordinations have already been moved to late summer or early fall.

The logistics of the total celebration here in our small space need to be discussed and organized before St. Anthony’s can consider reopening. Moreover, given the situation, all committees and parish programming, except for the Ecumenical Foodbank, will be put on hold until a new pastor/administrator is assigned.

The Diocese is still in the process of searching for a new pastor/administrator. I will continue to make available masses online until Sunday, June 28, 2020.

I understand it is difficult to not have the opportunity to properly say goodbye before my retirement date. We will find time in the future to do so in person. I will broadcast a farewell message in June.

You will remain in my prayers, as I know I am in yours.
Be safe. Fr. Pete