Masses returned to many parishes within the diocese over Pentecost weekend, May 30 and 31, after over a two-month break. While some parishes added more Masses, some are not yet ready to fully open, making sure they have all mechanisms in place to assure the safety of parishioners in light of the pandemic. Please check with your individual parish for proper procedure on attending Mass. Several restrictions for the safety of parishioners include mandatory masks for those over age 2, social distancing, Communion in the hand only, no choir or ensemble singing and the sign of peace should not include physical contact. Bishop Joseph Kopacz continues to dispense all of the faithful from the Sunday Obligation to participate in Mass until further notice.
JACKSON – Blue painters tape separates the pews at St. Richard to help ensure proper social distance is kept. Father John Bohn and Father Nick Adams celebrated Pentecost Mass with parishioners for the first time since churches were shuttered during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Photo by Beth de Gruy)
SOUTHAVEN – Father David Szatkowski, SCJ, of Sacred Heart parish distributes communion into the hands of a parishioner, while maintaining social distancing. (Photo by Laura Grisham)
OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace parish welcomed Emily Mendoza into the church on Pentecost Sunday as her parents, Janie and Jeffery, sister Madilynn and sponsor Connie Hegwood look on. (Photo by Laura Grisham)
PEARL – St. Jude parishioners enjoyed a drive-in Mass on Saturday, May 30. Pictured are chancery employee, Carolyn Callahan and her husband (Danny) receiving Communion from Father Lincoln Dall. (Photo by Tereza Ma)
