Dispensation From Mass Ends

Dear St. Catherine Parish Family,

Yesterday, Archbishop Hartmayer released a letter expressing his intention to remove the general dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass in the Archdiocese Atlanta. This means that, apart from certain specific circumstances listed in his letter, all Catholics in the archdiocese should return to regular participation in the Eucharist each Sunday. The Archbishop has decided that this change will take effect officially the weekend of Pentecost (May 22-23); however, it is certainly encouraged that we attend Mass prior to this date.

I am grateful to the Archbishop for his deep concern that the faithful are able to return to the Eucharist, and he shares some beautiful reflections on the profound importance of the Eucharist in his letter, which can be found here. Over the last year, I have tried to offer several different options for our parishioners to be able to attend Mass safely (including outdoor Masses and simulcasting Masses into the Mary garden), and I will continue to offer these options. Information on our Mass schedule can be found on our parish website.

As we fully reopen our churches at Pentecost, I pray that the Holy Spirit will inspire us to live our faith to the full and embrace all of the gifts He desires to give us, so that we might continue to be a light for our community and a witness to the joy and hope that come especially from our Eucharistic Lord.

Sincerely in Christ,

Fr. Neil