Thank you to the almost 600 households who responded to our parish-wide survey about a potential return to the celebration of Mass without masks, tickets, and all the necessary precautions of the past 18 months. Your responses were insightful and we want to share some of the “big picture” results with you.
The survey provided places in which more detailed responses could be given. In reviewing the hundreds of comments, here are some of the recurring themes that are also supported by the survey questions:
- People were appreciative for all the precautions taken by the parish – even it was sometimes frustrating being unable to make a reservation.
- There continues to be a great hunger for the Eucharist. People were appreciative of the “drive-by” opportunities.
- People can’t wait to return to a full church and again be a lively, in-person community sharing a faith and fellowship.
- There is great sense of belong to St. Francis of Assisi parish.
Some of the interesting results of specific survey questions:
- Participation in Mass
- Folks who regularly participating in Mass (in person and live stream mix) – 65% of respondents
- Another 24% live stream only with about 20% of those also coming to drive-thru Eucharist.
- About 3% of respondents attended other churches when unable to make a reservation
- Vaccination Status
- 65 % of respondents are fully vaccinated and ready to return
- 25% are vaccinated but not yet ready to return
- Sense of comfort among households about the number of people in church during Mass
- Three-fourths filled or full – 60% (if vaccinated) would feel comfortable
- If the church were half filled an additional 35% would feel comfortable
- When we are “opened up”
- 75% plan to keep wearing masks
- 60% wanted some level of social distancing
Those are the “big picture” findings. Again, thanks for participating!