To combat the COVID-19 testing difficulties caused by the Omicron variant, the Diocese launched testing sites at strategically located parishes in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties during the month of February.
The parishes of Our Lady of the Valley, Hemet; St. Mary Magdalene, Corona; St. Louis, Cathedral City; St. Vincent Ferrer, Sun City; the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mecca; Our Lady of Soledad, Coachella; St. Margaret Mary, Chino and St. Catherine of Alexandria, Riverside have all opened their doors to become testing sites. Additional sites in the High Desert and Low Desert were expected to be announced in March.
In addition, the Diocese is currently operating a private testing site at the Diocesan Pastoral Center (DPC) in San Bernardino for employees, volunteers, clergy, religious, students and members of immediate household of any of the above categories. The parish testing sites are open to all parishioners.
“As you know – or have experienced – testing for COVID-19 and its variants has become a logistical challenge. Registering and waiting days to schedule a test and receive test results completed by health care providers, pharmacies or urgent care centers has resulted in unnecessary delays for many of our Diocesan community members in returning to ministry service,” said Ann Marie Gallant, Director of the Diocesan’s Emergency Operations Collaborative.
The testing sites are being operated by an Irvine laboratory and the tests are PCR tests. Results are given out confidentially in 24-48 hours to the individual’s email or cell phone.
The tests are free, and non-insured individuals are welcome. There is no geographical requirement for testing; registrants may reside in any area of Riverside or San Bernardino County.
Registration will be required for the testing, and a registration link will be shared with all parishes and schools once available.