July 1, 2021
Vicar General's Communique Regarding Restrictions and Openings
The following updates have been made concerning the lifting of restrictions and openings:

1. Churches may operate at full capacity without social distancing.
2. Masks are not required for fully vaccinated individuals.
3. A separate COVID-restrictive section or a separate Mass is requested to accommodate those who are not/cannot be vaccinated; these would adhere to social distancing/masking restrictions as have been followed over the last year. Please be considerate to those who are still wary of the virus.
4. Communion on the tongue and the sign of peace may be restored per pastors’ judgment. Please announce that some may still be uncomfortable with the sign of peace and physical contact is optional, else a nod to one’s neighbors is sufficient.
5. The Mass obligation remains suspended. Per statistics, there are still over a third of the state which is not vaccinated. Also, many persons will still be fearful for selves and immune-compromised family and friends to whom they want to protect from COVID, as well as uncertainly towards potentially virulent variants. Obviously, however, pastors should encourage attendance at Mass if people do not have such concerns.
6. Streaming/broadcast of Masses may continue at pastors’ discretion. It is recommended regardless so as to accommodate the sick or homebound.
7. Fiestas may be planned as normal, but need to be ready to adhere to the state guidance for group settings then in place when they actually occur.
8. The increased sanitization of facilities practiced during the pandemic may be discontinued at pastors’ discretion, remembering charity for those who still have reservations/concerns about safety.
9. Likewise, Holy Communion under both species may be reinstated at pastors’ discretion.
10. Catechesis and classes may still fall under stricter guidelines per the state health order. Faith Formation Office will provide guidance as conditions change.

** The Archdiocese of Santa Fe will continue to remain aware of each county’s restriction level and operate at the specified level of restrictions or of higher restriction, according to pastors’ prudence and in consultation with staff and councils.  Website: https://cv.nmhealth.org/public-health-orders-and-executive-orders/red-to-green/ 

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200514 Directives for the Public Celebration of the Eucharist

200514 Directrices para la celebración pública de la Eucaristía