June 2, 2020
Dear Reverend Fathers and Parish Council Presidents,
Further to last evening’s meeting, His Eminence Metropolitan Nathanael has directed the revision of the May 20, 2020 Directive regarding the ability for attendance at services by parishioners.
The last paragraph of Section H of the May 20, 2020 Directive is revised to reflect the following:
Parishes must take steps to protect those at greatest risk. In addition to informing people who display symptoms of COVID-19 or who are otherwise not feeling well for any reason should remain home. Further, parishes should intentionally remind the vulnerable population to consider the recommendations of the CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/index.html. As part of their pastoral responsibilities, clergy, ensuring he is following safety measures, may visit such individuals at their homes to offer them the Holy Eucharist.
Section I, regarding recording of attendance, is supplemented with the addition of the following:
It is recommended that the record of attendees and service be retained by the parish for a period of one (1) year.
All other provisions of the May 20, 2020 Directive, as amended by the May 30, 2020 Directive, remain in effect. Please rest assured that the Metropolis will continue to monitor the changing landscape and will continue to offer you guidance and helpful information as it becomes available to us.
In closing, I would like to convey to you His Eminence’s blessings. Our Metropolitan is grateful for your vigilance and cooperation, and he urges you to continue to submit to us recommendations and suggestions based on your own experience at the local parish level.
In Christ,
+Very Rev. Timothy G. Bakakos
Chancellor
