Diocese of London COVID-19 Update on the Wearing of Masks 22 July 2020

As noted in various up-dates, including the "Directions and Recommendations for the First Stage of Reopening Churches" (17 June 2020), the Diocese of London is following the guidance of local Medical Officers of Health (MOHs) in various matters. One of these is the wearing of masks in our churches. Since 17 June, various MOHs across the Diocese have issued directives concerning the wearing of masks. In some locales, these recommendations have been given the force of law through by-laws, which also impose fines for non-compliance. The variations are noted below:

Chatham-Kent No mask by-laws or public health orders at this time.

Sarnia-Lambton No mask by-laws or public health orders at this time.

Haldimand-Norfolk No mask by-laws or public heath orders at this time. (Norfolk will consider one on 18 August; Haldimand doesn't see the need at this time)

Huron-Perth Huron-Perth MOH now requires wearing masks in indoor commercial or public spaces. There is an exemption under "For Your Customers" as follows "4. iv: and that the face covering is worn inside the premises at all times, unless it is reasonably required to temporarily remove the face covering for services provided by the establishment"

London - Middlesex Masks are now mandatory to enter a church, but these can be removed for readings, homilies, the presider's prayers, and Communion without violating the law. The amendment was requested by the Diocese and it was passed with the support of Dr. Mackie, Middlesex-London Medical Officer of Health. We conclude that the regulation will be applied to Middlesex County, pending a formal clarification from the health unit, which we expect soon. The exemption under City of London by-law sections 9. g and 12. g reads as follows: "Persons within an Establishment, while participating in a religious service, for rituals which require an uncovered mouth."

Southwestern Public Health (Elgin & Oxford) No mask by-laws or public health orders at this time.

Windsor-Essex Health Unit Windsor-Essex MOH now requires wearing masks in commercial establishments, with the following exemption: "Notwithstanding the foregoing, the following are not subject to this Order even if they would otherwise fall within the definition of a Commercial Establishment: Churches or faith settings"

In light of the above, where it is required by the local MOH, parishes are expected to enforce the wearing of masks where stipulated. Exemptions are given for lectors, deacons, and presiders for the parts of the Mass, as noted, but also for those who, because of a medical reason, may not be able to wear a mask. This also means that presiders and deacons are required to wear a mask at all times other than when proclaiming the Gospel, preaching, or leading the prayers.

When people are greeted at the door of the church they must be informed if the local MOH requires a mask, and that they are expected to comply. If they present a medical reason for not wearing a mask, they should be taken at their word and allowed into the church. If they refuse on other grounds, they must be asked to leave. In such a delicate situation, it should be emphasized that we are required to follow the MOH directives, and that we do so for the sake of the health of others. Christian charity can also be a good incentive to think of others.

Where masks are not required, we still strongly encourage all who are eight years of age and older to wear a mask throughout the celebration, keeping in mind the necessity of removing a mask if one is proclaiming the readings or preaching. See "The Assembly", 17 June 2020, section 8, p. 6.