Announcement: Mass Changes to reduce health risks

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

Due to the recent spread of COVID-19, otherwise known as the Coronavirus, the following changes will take place beginning this weekend through Holy Week, in accordance with the recommendations of the Diocese of St. Augustine:
 

• The distribution of the Precious Blood will be withheld. As Catholics we know that the fullness of Christ’s Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity are fully present in the Host and therefore the non-reception of the Precious Blood in no way leaves one with an absence of Communion with Christ.  
• The exchange of a physical sign of peace will be suspended.   Parishioners are invited to extend a wave or slight bow of the head to those around them as an alternate. 
• We will be removing the Holy Water from the fonts located in both the Main Church and Historic Church.  

 
These changes are to help ensure the health and safety of all who worship here, a top priority of Father Sebastian, the clergy, and staff of St. Joseph’s. 
 
As we journey through this penitential season, consider these deprivations as preparation for Easter.  The reception of these great treasures of the Church will resume at as we begin the Holy Triduum!  What a great hope for us all to carry on our journey.
 
Below you will find a link to the Diocesan web page that has greater information regarding the Coronavirus.
 
https://www.dosafl.com/2020/03/06/statement-on-the-coronavirus/ 
 
We appreciate the continued support of our faithful parishioners and ask that you keep all who are ill, from this virus and from any and all ailments, in your prayers this Lenten season!