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August 9, 2021
COVID-19 Spike Response Regarding Reimposing RestrictionsTo the People of the Diocese of Corpus Christi,
With the recent spike in COVID infections and the presence of the Delta variant in the Coastal Bend, a question has arisen whether we should re-impose restrictions to protect those who have not been vaccinated. At this time, we will not impose the restrictions of the past year.
The reason not to re-impose restrictions is because the vaccine is universally and readily available and is highly effective against the disease.
We continue to encourage everyone who can receive the vaccine to do so. Both the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ and the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith affirm that because of “the gravity of the current pandemic and the lack of availability of alternative vaccines (that are completely free of compromised cell lines), the reasons to accept the new COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna are sufficiently serious to justify their use, despite their remote connection to morally compromised cell lines.”
I would like to remind everybody of the common practices that guard against the spread of the COVID-19 infection: wearing a face mask, washing and/or sanitizing your hands frequently, and practicing social distancing can assist in preventing the spread of the virus. While these measures are not mandatory, nevertheless I encourage you to consider observing them in order to protect yourself and others.
As the situation changes with respect to variants, vaccine efficacy, directives from the State of Texas and local Health Officials, the Diocese will continue to reassess our response and the steps that need to be taken.
Please remember that the dispensation from Sunday Mass obligation ended on November 1, 2020 for those who are in good health and not are vulnerable or are not caring from someone who is. As was announced at that time, illness is a serious reason that allows someone to be dispensed from their obligation to attend Sunday Mass. If you are in doubt, please consult your pastor concerning your individual situation.
May Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Diocese of Corpus Christi and of the Americas protect us and instill in us compassion and care for one another.
Yours in Christ,
Most Rev. Wm. Michael Mul y, STL, DD
Bishop of Corpus Christi
