Dear St. Mary’s Parishioners, I write to inform you that I have self-reported a positive test result for COVID-19 last night, January 27, 2021. I am under medical care and will quarantine until cleared by my physician to return. Know that I am feeling fine, and ask that you keep me in your prayers. While the parish has implemented health and safety precautions to minimize the spread of the virus, it is possible that those who attended Mass this week celebrated by me were potentially exposed. I urge you to consult with your physician if you or any member of your family displays symptoms consistent with COVID-19. Symptoms of COVID-19 include coughing, fever, loss of taste or smell, and shortness of breath. It is important to follow all guidelines provided at this time, including staying at home, continuing preventive measures, and practicing social distancing. For more information about symptoms and testing, please use this link: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/index.html. In addition, see Frequently Asked Questions from the Maryland Department of Health: https://phpa.health.maryland.gov/Documents/coronavirus_FAQ.pdf I also want to share the following steps St. Mary’s is taking to minimize the impact at our parish, and our workplace and to keep everyone healthy and safe. We want you to be aware of the following actions: • We have communicated directly with any specific employees, clergy, business contacts, and others who are believed to have come in direct contact with me recently, and have asked these individuals to work remote or stay home for a quarantine period as advised by the CDC. • We are following the latest CDC recommendations for cleaning and disinfecting facilities, including the church and work area. • Daily Mass and Adoration will be cancelled on Thursday, January 28th and Friday, January 29th. We plan to resume Mass this weekend and will have a visiting priest cover the Masses. We continue to encourage all parishioners and visitors to practice good hygiene and social distancing to minimize the risk of infection. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding during these times. In Christ, Rev. Samuel I. Plummer St. Mary’s of Piscataway