The small congregation sat at opposite ends of their pews for Saturday morning Mass at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic church in Toto.

Mass was held at 7:30 a.m. on Oct. 24, 2020 and was presided by Father Val Rodriguez, the Parochial Administrator of the church.

Inside, parishioners prayed for those affected by COVID-19 and for the safety of frontline workers

Blue masking tape cordoned off sections of the chapel’s pews. The subtle tone of the church’s infrared thermometer chimed as more worshipers joined for Mass.

Outside, speakers and projectors played the sermon for residents attending from their vehicles.

Immaculate Heart of Mary reopened their doors in early October at 25% occupancy in accordance to Pandemic Condition of Readiness 1 protocols.

For the church, the changes COVID-19 made were difficult, however, Rose Marie Edquilane, a member of parish staff, says that the church was able to adapt.

 “We’ve met every challenge admirably to bring spiritual comfort to the maximum extend possible with the protocols set forth by out archdiocese,” said Edquilane.

Edquilane noted that a major issue the church faces are finances but remains strong in her faith in God and in her congregation to face this challenge.