Archbishop Listecki says 'there's a hunger for people to return' with Mass set to resume May 31

MILWAUKEE -- Milwaukee Archbishop Jerome Listecki in a letter to Archdiocese of Milwaukee parishes and schools Thursday, May 14 announced Sunday Mass will resume on Sunday, May 31. This, after the Wisconsin Supreme Court struck down the state's coronavirus stay-at-home order Wednesday, May 13 -- essentially reopening the state.

Archbishop Listecki said the Milwaukee Archdiocese is using a phased approach "in the gradual return to ministry" -- noting that Mass won't be the same as it was before COVID-19.

Since March, Milwaukee Catholics have taken part in Mass from home, with seats empty at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist. That will change starting May 31.

"There's a hunger for people to return, and I think that hunger goes into people being a part of the congregation and assembly, to be with other people," said Archbishop Listecki.

Changes include only 25% of congregants able to attend Mass -- with those 65 and older, or with pre-existing conditions asked to stay home. There will be considerable social distancing and sanitation to make sure parishioners remain safe.

"We wanted to make sure what we were doing was trying to be safe for our neighbors," said Archbishop Listecki. "The burden shifts to all of us to look out for our neighbors."

The Eucharist will only be delivered by hand, and there will be no presentation of gifts.

Archbishop Listecki said amid the pandemic, there are many lessons.

"The pandemic kind of brought to mind there may not be tomorrow," said Archbishop Listecki. "Understand that my neighbor's hurts are my hurts."

Below is Archbishop Listecki's letter to parishes and schools:

CLICK HERE for a look at the Milwaukee Archdiocese's "Catholic Comeback" matrix.

Meanwhile, FOX6 News will continue to air/stream Sunday Mass until in-person Mass resumes: