As precautionary and preventive measures to reduce possible transmission of the virus, the following measures will be implemented at the Church of St. Francis Xavier liturgies:

1. There will be no holy water in the fountains.

2. Distribution of Holy Communion will be distributed only under one species (in the form of bread).

3. Mass attendees will be asked to forego any shaking of hands or exchange of hugs and kisses during the sign of peace and the Our Father.

4. Mass attendees will be asked to receive the Body of Christ in their hands and not in the mouth.

5. If you suspect that you have symptoms of the coronavirus, in general, use common sense. Contact your doctor immediately.  Remain at home so as to save others from catching your illness.

6. Cardinal Dolan has reminded us that we are dispensed of our Sunday Mass obligation if we are sick.


The Archdiocese of New York has organized a group of knowledgeable people to monitor and mitigate the various aspects of the coronavirus threat.  Plans and procedures are being developed to address various circumstances in the event they arise.  They will provide us with advisories and directives as needed to address any situation that would affect us.