St John XXIII Parish

Liturgy of the EucharistPlease note that for the next two years, the Archdiocesan focus will now be on 'Building Community.'During winter and spring flu season and throughout the year, many people avoid shaking hands in order to minimize transmission of colds and flu. Parishioners should not feel obligated to shake hands for the greeting during the Gathering Rite and the 'Peace' greeting during the Mass. Nor should anyone feel hurt if their neighbour does not extend their hand. It is important to show care and friendliness, but there are many other ways: a brief nod, a respectful bow, or a cheerful smile are all perfectly acceptable. Archdiocesan guidelines for H1N1 ('swine') flu precautions were promulgated in September 2010 for liturgy and for parish operations . 'Stage 1' precautions were put in place in 2009 but have since been suspended by the Archbishop's office. However, it is stressed that we should continue using hand sanitizers in the church and maintain good hygiene practices.Outside Volunteer OpportunitiesAssist people living in personal care homes in our area: Volunteers respond to varied needs, including assisting residents to come to Mass when it is held in their residence