The diocese has issued a clarification for parishes and the use of their halls and other meeting facilities. New restrictions issued September 19 by the provincial government concerning unmonitored private gatherings and organized public events do not apply to staffed facilities such as those operated by parishes for parish meetings of ministry groups and societies. Meetings such as those of the Knights of Columbus, or for Bible study are monitored private events, and may have up to 50 participants indoors with adequate social distancing and observation of mandated COVID-19 protocols.
The diocese has announced new guidelines for the use of parish halls and centres. These include a ban on “private events” such as funeral receptions and showers.
Groups who used parish facilities prior to the pandemic are permitted to return to booking rooms for their activities. However, COVID-19 protocols must be followed. All regulations with respect to physical distancing and all precautions with respect to personal sanitation and cleaning of the parish hall are in effect, including maintaining of visitor/participant logs, and all entering the hall completing self-assessment screening forms. Physical distancing will be required (6 ft/2m). Public washrooms are only to be used in emergencies.
To read the full text, click here: 31_August_Use of Parish Halls