I am aware of the announcement of new recommendations from the CDC for those fully vaccinated against COVID-19, that was released yesterday (if you have not seen it, you can find it here). Of course, with the e-news and bulletin message that was sent out today having been written 4 days ago, it seems outdated already.
Because I know there will be questions, I wanted to reach out as soon as I could. This is welcome and wonderful news and is more evidence that we are moving in the right direction in regard to the pandemic, and a return to a sense of normalcy. Without dampening enthusiasm though, at this moment, these recommendations do not substantially change practices here at St. Gregory the Great. The CDC recommendations are just that, recommendations, and we still must abide by the directives of the NJ State Health Department when it comes to social distancing and mask/face coverings, especially while in our public buildings. When those directives (and those of the Diocese) are updated, we will adjust our practices in line with what they contain.
So, in summary, the recommendations of the CDC are a welcome indication that normalcy is returning, especially for those who are vaccinated. However until state and diocesan directives change, we cannot as a parish, even consider eliminating our COVID protocols: in particular the need to assign seats in the Church in a socially-distanced way, and wear masks/face coverings when in any indoor public setting. Trust me when I say, I am eager to no longer have to do these things, however we must continue to be patient with these directives and with one another. God Bless you.