This week Governor Walz issued an Executive Order requiring face coverings in all indoor spaces, including churches, taking effect today, July 25. Last evening, the Archbishop provided a response and direction to the parishes on this directive.  Though decisions regarding safety protocols within Catholic churches are ultimately within the authority of the diocesan bishop, Catholic tradition teaches that the Church should collaborate with public officials in the service of public health and the common good unless directives are unreasonable, impractical, or discriminatory. The Archdiocese does not regard the Governor’s Executive Order to wear face coverings to be any of these and is therefore asking parishes to comply with his order.

There are exemptions to this requirement, though, including:
-Individuals with a medical condition or disability that makes it unreasonable for the individual to maintain a face covering
-Children who are five years old and under, and
-Those assisting at Mass in certain ministries – priests, cantors, musicians, and lectors.

The mask may also removed for the reverent reception of Holy Communion. 
The Church of St. Joseph gratefully asks for your cooperation with this new order as we rightfully follow the guidance of our Archbishop – and we also ask for charity for those whose particular conditions might exempt them from this requirement.  
Further direction and information will be forthcoming this week.

ONLINE PRE-REGISTRATION FOR SUNDAY MASSES
Registration is no longer necessary for daily Mass.

Please follow these guidelines so that we help one another stay healthy!

If you are sick, elderly, or chronically ill, please stay home.  The Obligation to attend Mass and Holy Days continues to be suspended as the pandemic continues.
Follow best hygienic practices.  Use hand sanitizer available at church or bring your own.  Avoid touching your face.  Cover coughs and sneezes.  Use the restroom at home before arriving.
Wear a mask.  This practice is strongly recommended for all over the age of two.
Practice social distancing.  Remain 6 feet away from others not in the same household.   Be mindful of the pews that are roped off from usage.

Follow directions and signs.  Please enter and exit through designated doors to maintain proper flow of traffic.
Be prepared for a quieter and shorter Mass.  Congregational singing will be avoided.  Hymnals and missals have been removed.
An Offertory container will be available as you enter the Church for weekend Masses.  We are grateful for your continued support.
Safely receive Communion.  The priest will come to you at the conclusion of the Mass to bring you Communion.  Stand or kneel with extended arms to receive in the palms of your hands (no gloves) with your mask on.  After receiving Communion, remove mask to consume the Host, and then replace mask.
Take a moment of quiet prayer.  Depart through one of the designated exits being mindful of social distancing.
Go in Peace.  Save social gathering for when it safe to do.  Please avoid congregating while at church.

We need Liturgy Attendants to help at our Masses. It's a very simple and straightforward way to share your time with our parish family.
REGISTER HERE

Would you like to help with live-streaming our Masses?  We will be upgrading our technology soon and we're building a team that will help us continue to serve those who aren't able to join us in person. 
We will train you if you're interested in helping!  REGISER HERE

REGISTER TO SPEND AN HOUR WITH JESUS HERE

REGISTER FOR SUNDAY MASS HERE