This Sunday, April 16, will see the last public Masses celebrated in Toronto for a significant period of time. Our 12:30 Mass WILL proceed this Sunday. The suspension comes into effect on Monday. S. Vincent de Paul church will remain open for private prayer. If you are coming to Mass this weekend, please note the points below. The restrictions are not our choice and we have to enforce them under threat of significant civil penalties:
- No matter what one thinks of the measures imposed by the government, some people are very scared. The health risks are not imaginary. We must be charitable and not inflame anyone's fears. We must also not put the parish at risk of incurring the significant sanctions now in place.
- No one in the congregation may sing during the Mass or bring their own hymnals or any other materials. No one may come within 2 meters (6 feet) of someone not residing in the same household.
- Everyone who is not medically exempt must wear masks in the church at all times, even while seated, except the moment of reception of Holy Communion. Everyone must depart after Mass - gathering in a group of more than one household, even outside, distanced, and masked, is now a violation of the law.
- Our parish will do everything humanly possible to ensure that no one is left without access to the sacraments, no matter the circumstance. If you find yourself or a loved one in "trouble, sorrow, need, sickness, or any other adversity", please contact the parish through our website by phone or email and appropriate arrangements will be made to help.
- S. Thomas More will continue to livestream Holy Mass every Sunday at 12:30 p.m. on our YouTube channel (see bottom of email) during this difficult time. It is highly suggested that you use the Sunday Bulletin (link below) and a Bible to prayerfully follow along with the liturgy being streamed.
