MITCHELL, SD – At least one South Dakota church is taking a proactive approach to concerns regarding the coronavirus. Father Ken Lulf at Holy Family Catholic Church says the parish’s insurance provider offered some suggestions.
“No holy water in the fonts to try and cut down on transmission was suggested,” said Father Lulf. “Other things discussed include no sign of peace during mass, and encouraging people to receive communion in the hand versus on the tongue.”
He realized the coronavirus was weighing on people’s minds. His goal was to remove the distraction and focus on what’s really important.
“It’s addressing a health concern,” says Father Lulf, “and also an encouragement for people to come here and they don’t have to be afraid.”
Father Lulf encourages parishioners to stay home from Mass if they feel ill and bring along hand-sanitizer if they choose. He notes, “Just have faith in God and we’re going to make it through this.”
He says the suspension of certain practices will remain in place until further notice.
