Mary, Mother of God Church
157 South Triangle Road
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
(908) 874-8220

June 1, 2020

Dear Family of Mary, Mother of God,

Christ's Peace! The day has arrived. Effective June 12, 2020 based on directives from the Governor and the Diocese of Metuchen we will once again be able to share the graces of the Mass in person!

The Mass will be the same but attending Mass will be different as the virus still exists in our society. So,  we have made a few changes in order that we may celebrate the Eucharist together in a safe and secure manner.
As with all places where people congregate, social distancing and individual masks/face coverings are mandatory in the Church and on the campus. We have marked off seating areas for families and  individuals and ask that you bring a mask and personal hand sanitizer.

Additional time between Masses will be required in order to properly clean and sanitize pews, restrooms, etc. so some Mass times will change. We will also be restricting entry into the Gathering Space to twenty minutes before each Mass so as to complete and maintain cleanliness.

The Order of Mass will remain the same with the exception of the distribution of Holy Communion. Bishop Checchio has given temporary permission for the distribution of Holy Communion to take place after the final blessing. The celebrant and deacon will wear face masks and protective eyeglasses during distribution of Holy Communion; the communicant is to continue wearing their mask. Communicants are asked to prayerfully consider receiving the host only in the hand so as to minimize the chance of passing the virus. Communicants will immediately leave the Church after receiving the host and offer their prayers of thanksgiving to Our Lord in their vehicle or upon returning home.
Socializing in the gathering space or parking lot prior to and after the Mass will not be permitted in order to maintain compliance with the social distancing procedures.

The complete list of changes and guidelines is attached to this letter. While they may seem intrusive to some, remember the common good of our brothers and sisters in Christ is a priority. It is our responsibility as a follower of Christ to worship the Father but in a way that protects the health of all involved to the best of our ability.

Father Alex, Father Sean and I are delighted we are once again able to celebrate Mass in your presence. May we all thank our Lord for this sacramental gift.

See you in the Eucharist,
Rev. John M. Rozembajgier, J.C.L.