Covid Exposure among the Pastoral Team

Communication for Our Lady Help of Christians Parish, Toronto

January 7, 2022

Dear Parishioners,

Happy New Year! I would like to thank all of you for your assistance in helping us to implement health protocols as we celebrate safely together.

Recently a member of our pastoral team was exposed to Covid-19. The member of the pastoral team has been self-isolating and is doing well. Parishioners have not subsequently reported positive Covid tests, so the risk of transmission seems quite low.

Bishop Robert Kasun has kindly agreed to celebrate Mass at the parish this weekend. I should note that the 10 a.m. Mass on Sunday, January 9, 2021 will be celebrated in English.

While the case presents a low risk of transmission, I wanted to be transparent with all of you. More than ever, especially with the very contagious Omicron variant, if you are experiencing any Covid-19 symptoms, please stay at home and limit contact with others. Anyone experiencing symptoms should consider a rapid antigen test, PCR test or consult with your family doctor. At this time, we ask that all parishioners continue to self-monitor for symptoms.

A self-assessment tool can be found by visiting: https://covid-19.ontario.ca/self-assessment/. Toronto Public Health is operating a call centre dedicated to only COVID-19 enquiries, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. Call 416-338-7600 if you have any questions.

Let us continue to pray for all those who are sick and those who are caring for them. Be assured of my prayers for the good health of all as we begin a new year. May God continue to bless you now and always.

Rev. Valentin Batic
Pastor