PITTSBURGH (Newsradio 1020 KDKA) - With the recent announcement that Pennsylvania will begin a slow reopening proccess as it deals with the affects of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bishop David Zubik says the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh is implementing some new rules related to the celebration of some sacraments.
“We have been examining how we can best carry out our mission and ministry while maintaining compliance with government restrictions. These changes represent a safe way for us to begin. We will continue to evaluate the evolving situation and update everyone about further changes,” Bishop Zubik said.
In a release, the church laid out these guidelines:
- WeddingsAs announced last week, in exceptional circumstances, weddings may be celebrated with no more than ten people including the priest/deacon officiant. Couples must be advised that once the ritual of matrimony is celebrated it cannot be repeated. As such, a Mass of Thanksgiving sometime after the actual wedding ceremony may/should be planned if the couple wishes for more than ten people to gather for a celebration.
- FuneralsIn exceptional circumstances, funerals with a Mass may be scheduled but with the limit of ten people or fewer. It should also be noted that the cemeteries are still closed for public interments until the restrictions are lifted.
- ConfessionsThe Sacrament of Penance may be celebrated but only outdoors, either in parking lots or another place where social distancing (six feet apart) is absolutely respected. Confessions cannot be celebrated in church, in the rectory, or within any parish building.
“As we look forward to the day when we can all join together in our parishes to celebrate Holy Masses again, I remain concerned for the protection of the health of our community. We want to keep everyone healthy, and we want to make sure that we do not put ourselves in a position to advance the contagion,” Bishop Zubik said.
At this time, churches remain closed and public celebrations of mass are still suspended.
Governor Tom Wolf outlined his plans for the reopening of Pennsylvania. The slow rollout is expected to begin on May 8.
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