October 5, 2022 Dear People of God in the Diocese of Chicago: I am giving thanks for this week’s news that COVID in Illinois is at its lowest rate since last spring, and for the new bivalent boosters that have made this progress possible. If you have not yet received your booster, I encourage you…
COVID-19 News
COVID-19 Updates: New CDC Guidance & Tool for Tracking Local Metrics
On July 27, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) released updated guidance for vaccinated people to maximize protection and spread of the Delta variant, including wearing masks indoors and in areas where the virus is surging. Following the CDC announcement, Illinois Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike announced that Illinois will follow the CDC’s recommendations. The CDC Covid Data…
Phase 5 Guidance/ Orientación de la Fase 5
Dear Friends, Since the day 15 months ago when Bishop Lee issued a directive to close our church buildings and cease in-person gatherings in response to the growing COVID-19 pandemic, you have faithfully and graciously led your congregations through the changes wrought by the pandemic. Together, we discovered new ways of worshiping virtually. You found…
May 5 COVID-19 Guidelines Presentation
On Wednesday, May 5, the attached presentation, which provides an overview of the latest COVID-19 guidelines for the Diocese of Chicago, was shared with clergy and lay leaders. Please contact Courtney Reid with any questions.
COVID-19 Guidelines for Deacons Participating in Liturgies
On March 29, the bishop’s staff, in consultation with the bishop-elect and COVID-19 advisory team, issued updated guidelines for deacons participating in liturgies. The guidance is as follows: Prior to setting the table, deacons should conspicuously use hand sanitizer to clean their hands prior to touching any of the elements. When setting the table, the…
New COVID-19 Updates, Online Office Hours
The bishop’s staff, in consultation with the bishop-elect and COVID-19 medical advisors, has issued these new updated guidelines for in-person gatherings in the Diocese of Chicago: Indoor services (no changes at this time) a. Maximum of 100 people (50 in the City of Chicago) or 25% of room capacity whichever is less. b. Can have groups in more than…