As of July 1, all churches and other places that hold religious services will operate without COVID-19 capacity limits or restrictions. Masks are strongly recommended, but not mandatory.

Some common questions about what this means can be found here:

Is the Sunday obligation reinstated?

  • The Sunday obligation has not been reinstated. Although originally slated to return for the weekend of July 10/11, the return of the Sunday obligation has been delayed. When more is known about the date and details, they will be provided.

Is there no limit now on the number of people attending Mass?

  • There is no limit.

Are masks optional now?

  • Yes. We strongly recommend, however, that you follow the guidance of the Public Health Officer: “Masks are recommended in public indoor settings for all people 12 and older who are not yet fully vaccinated.”

No more pre-registration for contact tracing purposes?

  • No, there should be no registration or taking of people’s information at the church entrance.

Will singing by the congregation be permitted now?

  • Yes.

Can we ask our choirs to come back?

  • Yes, choirs can return to normal.

Can we now put out hymnals, missals, envelopes, etc. in the church pews?

  • Yes.

Does this mean that there is no more necessity for social distancing?

  • Correct, there is no social distancing required during religious services.

What about coffee after Mass - social time in the basement/outside/hall?

  • Outdoor social gatherings after Mass can have 5,000 people or 50% capacity of the space, whichever is greater. 
  • Indoor social gatherings after Mass can have 50 people or 50% capacity, whichever is greater.

What restrictions are there for those who are not vaccinated?

  • There are none, although “masks are recommended in public indoor settings for all people 12 and older who are not yet fully vaccinated.”

Do we still have to sanitize pews and contact services after each Mass?

  • No.

Can we shake hands at the kiss of peace? Should we?

  • The kiss of peace is to be restored according to the custom of the parish.
  • Those who are uncomfortable with shaking hands may bow or make a similar gesture to their neighbour.

Are there any special instructions regarding altar servers, lectors or extraordinary ministers of the Eucharist?

  • They can return to their normal practice.

Should Holy water fonts be refilled and used?

  • Holy Water fonts should be available for those who wish to use them.