West Fork Catholic Community

• Confessions may return to normal spacing within the church confessionals.
• Screens within the confessionals are encouraged.
• For those parishes who have not already done so, scheduled confession times may fully return.

• Congregational singing may resume, including the various parts of the Mass.
• Hymnals, missalettes, and worship aids may be resume being used.
• Choirs may return to normal sizes.

• Holy water and baptismal fonts may be filled for use.
• Collections may be taken up at the Offertory with baskets.
• Collections may be counted as normal.
• The Offertory procession with the presentation of the gifts of bread and wine may resume.
• The Sign of Peace, which is an optional rite in the Mass, will continue to be omitted.
• Holy Communion will continue to be distributed only under the species of bread.
• Communion plexiglass barrier stations may be removed.
• Deacons may receive the Precious Blood from an additional chalice or by way of intinction. As a general reminder, only priests are allowed to self-communicate.
• It is required to sanitize fingers after giving Communion in the mouth.

• Whether for Baptism, Anointing of the Sick, or delegated Confirmations, it is no longer necessary to use instruments for anointing with the holy oils.
• Updated 17 May 2021, 6:02 pm

Statement regarding pope's comments on documentary:
I want to speak to the faithful of the Diocese of Sioux City regarding comments reportedly made by the Holy Father that were released in the media yesterday about civil unions for same sex attracted persons. Unfortunately, as of now, no clarifications on these comments have come forth from the Vatican and the comments have caused many people to question whether Church teaching has changed. The remarks were made by Pope Francis in an Italian documentary film, Francesco, released in Rome about the pope and his ministry and approach to social issues.
The Holy Father, it is reported, commented that those with same-sex attraction should be part of a family, that they are Children of God. Other comments were made about his support of civil unions.
Pope Francis has not changed Church teaching regarding same-sex attraction, nor would he be able to do so. The sacrament of marriage can only be received by one man and one woman. The Holy Father is certainly not changing Church teaching but is encouraging us as Catholics to treat all human beings with kindness as we are all made in the image and likeness of God.  Those with same sex attraction are no exception.
I, as your Bishop, ask you to pray for those who struggle with their faith because of these statements reportedly said by our Holy Father as well as those who struggle with same sex attraction. Pray also for the Holy Father, and for me, your humble servant.

Most Rev. Bishop Walker Nickless