We are re-opening!

In order to re-open safely, we need to change some of the ways we do things. Please read below for what we are asking our congregation to do in order to make our public worship services safe for everyone.

1. Pre-Registration (for Sunday Masses)

• Due to the need for physical distancing, seating will be more limited than usual. To avoid turning anyone away, we have established a pre-registration system. A link to the registration system will be posted on this website. Each service has its own registration link, so make sure you’re registering for the right date.

• Some seats will be set aside for potential visitors.

• Parishioners who are elderly, have chronic health problems, or who are otherwise uncomfortable attending a public worship service are invited to contact the clergy to arrange for private communion.

2. Arrival

• Upon arrival, you will find line-up markings spaced two meters apart on the sidewalk. Try to maintain distancing and avoid physical contact such as hand-shaking. When you enter the church please use the hand sanitizer that will be placed inside the door. A sidesperson will take your name and match it to the pre-registration list. Visitors and those with incomplete contact information will be asked for their complete information in case contact tracing is necessary. In accordance with Public Health requirements, all information collected for contact-tracing purposes will be destroyed after 30 days. We ask that you bring a face mask, but in case you forget, a sidesperson at the door will have a supply.

• Take a bulletin from the pile. When the service is over, please take it home or dispose of it in the recycling bin. 

• The offering plate will be placed near the bulletins. As always, it is also possible to give electronically (Pre-Authorized Giving, Canada Helps or e-transfers to treasurer@stmarymagdalene.ca), which helps reduce the need to handle cash.

• Proceed to your seat following the signage. A sidesperson will be available if any assistance is needed.

3. Service

• Some services may be live-streamed. The congregation will be only minimally visible in the videos. “Dark” areas will be made available for any person who is uncomfortable with the possibility of appearing on camera.

• In accordance with city guidelines, congregational singing needs to be suspended at this time and Hymn books will be packed away.

• Congregational responses should be spoken in a low voice.

• During the exchange of peace, please stay in your pew and exchange the peace at a distance by bowing and hand gestures.

• At Communion, please follow the directions given by the clergy and sidespersons. Please do not go up to receive until the sidesperson signals you to do so.

4. Departure

• Following the service, exit through the designated exits, following the directions of the sidespeople.