We are happy to inform you that pursuant to a recent Supreme Court ruling, Bishop Soto has given us permission to move Mass inside effective immediately. As of February 2, 2021, Solano County and 54 other counties are still under PURPLE TIER which means the risks level is widespread. Pursuant to California Public Health Department 4-tiered system for reopening based on the level of risk, Churches in counties where the risk level is purple may offer Mass inside for the number of congregants equal to 25% of seating capacity. At this time, we will be limited to 55-60 people in attendance.
AS A REMINDER,the General Principles pertaining to health and safety protocols still apply (e.g. the vulnerable should remain home, facial covering, physical distancing, sanitation, and contact tracing). Congregational chanting or singing remains suspended, any sung parts of the Mass or other Liturgy should be sung by the presider and cantor. We all must maintain continued vigilance in practicing these prudent safety measures in the exercise of ministry in our parish. The question now is: How do we apply these guidelines to our parish so that everyone has the opportunity to attend mass in person and be able to receive the sacrament safely and responsibly? In our previous parish guidelines, the PPC decided to have signup lists for each mass during the weekdays and weekend masses. Therefore, it is important to call the parish office for reservation and it will be a first come first serve basis. Be assured that we will continue to observe all safety protocols as required by current health regulations. For those who are able to attend and feel safe, we encourage you to arrive early for Mass and join us. Please also remember that the Bishop's dispensation from attending Mass remains in place. If you are not comfortable attending in person, the mass on weekdays and the 10am and 12noon Sunday mass will still be livestreamed and drive by communion will be at 1:15 – 2:00pm. As per the advice of our Parish Council, we will resume our weekend schedule effective on Saturday, February 13, 2021. For your information, our mass schedules are as follows: Tuesday – Friday @ 8:00am; Saturday @ 5:00 pm; Sunday @ 8:00 am; 10:00 am; 12:00 noon (Spanish). Confession is Saturday at 4:00-4:45pm. The schedules are posted on our website www.stjosephriovista.org. Please call the parish office to sign up (707) 374-2155 or email at [email protected].
Let us ask the intercessions of both our Blessed Mother Mary and St. Joseph to join with our prayers for God’s mercy to end the pandemic, bring healing to the afflicted, protection and perseverance to those who care for them, and consolation to those who mourn the death of loved ones.