The Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh has granted permission for Christmas Vigil Masses to begin as early as 2 p.m. on Dec. 24.
Christmas Eve Masses are usually required to be celebrated in the evening. But due to the global pandemic, Bishop David Zubik has decided an earlier Mass is permissable “when warranted for the spiritual good of the faithful.”
The scheduling of an earlier Mass would not replace the traditionally scheduled Vigil Masses but would be in addition to those already scheduled, the Diocese said in a statement.
Pastors will have the authority to decide Christmas Mass schedules based on the needs of their parishes and the parish’s ability to staff and support Masses.
All covid-19 health and safety protocols will be maintained, including social distancing of at least 6 feet between family groupings, mandatory mask-wearing, and cleaning and sanitizing procedures in between each Mass.
“Christmas 2020 will look and feel different this year, but the love, joy and hope that come from the celebration of the birth of Jesus remain constant and strong,” said Zubik.
Meanwhile, the Diocese said the dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday and Holy Day Masses remains in effect in the Pittsburgh Diocese and throughout Pennsylvania.
However, many parishes will continue to livestream Masses including Christmas Masses.
“Whether in person, or online, there will be many opportunities to stay connected to Jesus this Holy Season,” Zubik said. ‘We are all profoundly in need of the gift of peace that comes from Jesus who is the Prince of Peace.”
