Memorial Mass set for Pittsburgh Catholics who died during covid-19 pandemic

Bishop David A. Zubik will offer a memorial Mass Sunday morning for all Catholics in the Pittsburgh Diocese who have died during the covid-19 pandemic.

The Mass will be livestreamed at 10 a.m. and can be viewed online.

Many who died during the spread of the virus did not have a funeral Mass because of precautionary restrictions on gatherings.

“Some of the deepest spiritual pain during this pandemic has been suffered by those who could not have a funeral Mass for their loved one,” Zubik said in a statement. “Our priests are now working with those families to schedule individual memorial Masses, but that will unfold over time.

“This memorial Mass allows everyone who has grieved without a funeral to pray together for the souls of their loved ones and to receive comfort in God’s promises of mercy and salvation.”

A memorial Mass is held in the absence of remains.

At the height of the pandemic, families couldn’t gather at the cemetery for a burial service, but they have been able to visit cemeteries individually.

On Mother’s Day and Memorial Day, the Catholic Cemeteries Association of the Diocese of Pittsburgh surveyed visitors about how to serve them best during the pandemic. The memorial Mass was the result.

The association invited those it had served during the pandemic to provide names of loved ones to be memorialized at the Mass. Nearly 800 names were submitted through its website and by phone.

Limitations on size and gathering places remain for Catholic funerals and burials, as do social distancing requirements.

Diocese directives for funerals can be seen by visiting the diocesan websiteand clicking on “Moving Forward Together.”