New Directives for Sunday Celebrations Beginning May 31st

From Bishop Michael C. Barber...

“In spite of what you may see in the news from Washington, I do not think it is safe, nor are we ready to reopen our churches for public Mass quite yet. We are working closely with State & County health officials to prepare.”

Dear St. Charles Family:

Among the options given to us by the bishop, and in consultation with our Liturgical Team, below are the directives for our Sunday celebrations beginning this coming Sunday (Pentecost), May 31st.

Every Sunday Beginning on Pentecost:

  • 9:30 AM — Watch our live Mass video at home

  • From 11:00 AM t0 12:00 PM — Receive Communion at St. Charles

Instructions to Receive Communion with Your Family

At any time between 11:30 am and 12:30 pm, park in the church parking lot, wear your mask (everyone in your family is required to wear a mask), and walk with your family to the opened Church doors. You will be directed by Hospitality & other volunteer ministers.

In the Church, Deacon Dave will bless you with holy water, which is a reminder of our baptism. You will then be directed to proceed and receive holy communion as set forth below:

Safest Way to Receive Communion:

  1. Stand at arm’s length from the minister (with your mask on)

  2. Minister says: “The Body of Christ”; You answer: “Amen”

  3. Bow slightly, then remove your mask

  4. Stretch your hands toward minister with one open-palm on top of the other

  5. Minister gently drops host in your palm without touch your palm

  6. Consume the host, (put your mask on) and exit as you are directed by other ministers

Special Notes:

  • If you would feel uncomfortable or unsafe by participating in this way, do not worry - you are not obligated to do so. Rest assured - God is still with you!

  • Similarly, if you do not feel well, stay at home until your health returns.

  • Please do not pause to hold conversations inside or outside of the Church. We all miss each other deeply but let us ensure our safety first. 

  • Also, you may bring your offering envelopes and drop them in the basket, and pick up bulletins as you exit the Church.

In the meantime, I can’t wait to see you at communion!

Fr. Kwame

For more information please contact our office manager Mary Hengl at (925) 922-6131 or email her at mary@stcharlesborromeo.org

Kelsey Szenderski