News

Update From the Archdiocese COVID-19 Taskforce

OLW Family,

Here is the latest update from our Archdiocese regarding COVID-19 practices.  This was sent to parish leadership, but we thought it best to share with parishioners as well.  As noted below, things are evolving rapidly.  Stay tuned for details as they are made available.

May 14, 2021

As you may know, yesterday the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced fully vaccinated adults do not need to wear a mask indoors or outdoors or in gatherings large or small, nor do they need to practice physical distancing. In light of this news, our COVID-19 Task Force is waiting for the Illinois Department of Public Health and Chicago Department of Public Health to advise on the application of the CDC’s guidance in our local area.

For now, our guidelines will remain the same until we have further clarity from local authorities. Please note the following: 

Schools

• Masks will continue to be worn in all archdiocesan schools through the remainder of the school year since the vast majority of students are not yet vaccinated. Note: this is in accord with Illinois State Board of Education guidance regarding masks in school buildings, as well.
• If we need to revise guidelines for year-end activities and events, such as graduations, we will do so as soon as possible.

Parishes and Pastoral Center

• All parishes should continue to require masks for all attendees at Masses and liturgies through this weekend as we work to operationalize the verification of vaccination status at the parish, agency and Pastoral Center levels.
• All staff should continue to wear masks in all archdiocesan offices for the time being, as well.

We will provide an update as early as possible next week on how the CDC’s announcement affects any of our archdiocesan operations and guidelines.

As noted, things continue to evolve rapidly as more people are vaccinated and we progress forward to full reopening. We thank everyone for your patience and cooperation, as well as your attention to the many updates that are necessary to share.

Peace,

COVID-19 Task Force