Like many other parishes, Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Cocoa Beach has struggled with the safety requirements during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The parish has settled on widely accepted guidelines that focus on social distancing. Fr. Patrick Sheedy, the pastor of Blessed Sacrament, says the health and safety of parishioners is the main concern. 

Sheedy says the parish will follow science and CDC guidelines so that people will feel safe when they come to church. He says people who have health issues or otherwise do not feel confident in coming to Mass are welcome to attend an online Mass. 

Family units are encouraged to keep six feet away from people in nearby pews. 

Collections have been deferred until after the Mass. Parishioners can drop off their offerings with the usher at the door either before or after Mass. 

The Sign of Peace is an acknowledgement of others with eyes and friendly facial expressions rather than with personal touching. Handshakes and contact are discouraged.

People are following social distancing guidelines in the Communion lines. Those who take Communion are only allowed to offer their hands to the Eucharistic minister. No Communion is placed on a person’s tongue. 

When Mass is over, people are encouraged to maintain social distancing. Shaking hands and having conversations in close proximity are discouraged in order to keep people safe.