Father Chad King, pastor of St. Gabriel the Archangel Roman Catholic Church in Cave Creek, recently celebrated their largest showing for Mass in months. 

The church was still well under capacity, even with COVID-19 restrictions being observed, and it is important to respect those who do not yet feel comfortable returning in person, King emphasized in a letter published in the church's Aug. 16 bulletin.

Bishop Thomas Olmsted has given a dispensation from Mass for those who are at high-risk or who are caring for someone who is at high-risk, King reminded parishioners in the letter.

Both the city of Phoenix and the Diocese require people attending indoor gatherings to wear masks, King continued. He also assured the congregation that the church is making an effort to keep Mass short in order to limit the time people must wear them.

Yet, he appealed to parishioners to wear a mask for a much more basic Christian reason: out of respect for their neighbors.

A recent email survey King conducted showed that at least six parishioners feel uncomfortable attending Mass in-person because others in attendance do not wear a mask.

“We who are coming to Mass should do all we can to help another to come to Mass also, that is what being the Body of Christ means, even if it means wearing a mask throughout Mass,” Fr. King said. “Even though it is a sacrifice, it is worth it, especially as we unite the sacrifice of wearing a mask throughout Mass to the Sacrifice of Christ, then it will be more beneficial for us and others.”