Spreading coronavirus prompts Catholic bishops to suspend obligation to attend Mass

Pennsylvania’s Catholic bishops said Thursday they are suspending the obligation to attend Sunday Mass until further notice.

“Following a joint conference call with all the bishops of Pennsylvania, effective immediately and until further notice, I wish to share with you that in union with all my brother bishops I am dispensing the faithful of the Diocese of Pittsburgh from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass,” Bishop David Zubik said in a statement.

All regularly scheduled Masses will remain open for those who wish to attend.

Bishop Edward C. Malesic of the Greensburg Catholic Diocese issued a similar statement regarding Mass attendance.

Zubik said a decision on other sacramental events, such as confirmation, will be made at a later date. Zubik said to increase personal prayer.

For now, confessions, religious education and Catholic school classes will continue, with previously announced precautions in place, the diocese said.

In a letter to clergy, Zubik said the diocese is acting “out of an abundance of caution.”

“As a Catholic faith community, in times of uncertainty our first response is to pray for guidance and grace to meet the challenges of the day,” Zubik wrote. “In creating policies and procedures related to the coronavirus outbreak (covid-19), we join people from around the world who are working through the same things.”

The diocese earlier this month suspended the distribution of wine during Communion, halted handshakes and physical contact during the exchange of the Sign of the Peace, and encouraged those who feel ill to not attend Sunday Mass.

The diocese also encouraged parishes with fish fry events to serve only takeout orders in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Parishes with fish fries are encouraged to consult local health departments for guidance on how to practice takeout hygiene during the pandemic.

Also, the diocese said beginning Monday that it is canceling “nonessential, diocesean-sponsored gatherings.”