Why is the cantor enclosed in a box?
To quote the Diocesan Office of Worship: "There is evidence (including examples involving choirs in other states) that singing, especially in close proximity to others, greatly increases the risk of viral spread by aerosoling respiratory particles in a manner more akin to coughing or sneezing than mere talking. This causes particles to travel beyond six feet, and even surgical masks don't effectively contain them. Infectious disease experts with whom we have consulted believe that this poses an unacceptable risk that would negate the beneficial effects of distancing and masks."
So.....as of June 1, the only singing currently allowed at public liturgies is by a cantor who must sing with a microphone from an enclosed space - either a room separate from the main body of the church - or from an enclosed booth or box specially constructed for this purpose. The parish is in the process of making an enclosed booth which will be in the choir area.
I know it is hard for many of you not to sing right now, but please do not sing or hum in any way!
As you know, the diocese has forbidden any choirs, or wind or brass instruments for several months now. The piano and organ and guitar may be used. As of June 1 (see above) one cantor may also sing at Mass. We have also removed all missalettes, hymnals, bulletins, and anything else on which a covid virus could settle (sometimes remaining for as long as 6 days). This was effective the middle of March.
We want everyone to stay healthy, and this is why the changes in music were made. This is a special, not normative for Church music, time that we are living in.
Let us all pray that a vaccine may be found soon and we can return to implementing the fullness
of the Church Documents and Liturgical Law.
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