Diocese of Pittsburgh Releases Plan for Reopening of Churches

Bishop David Zubik
Photo credit (Photo by Nate Guidry/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette/TNS)

PITTSBURGH (Newsradio 1020 KDKA) - The Diocese of Pittsburgh has released plans to reopen churches as much of Western PA moves into the yellow phase of the state's COVID-19 reopening plan.

"We are eager to return to the comfort of our Churches and join together in prayer as a source of spiritual strength to support us through the suffering and anxiety caused by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Bishop Zubik said. “We are working with health agencies and in coordination with other religious leaders to proceed in a way that tends to spiritual health, while protecting the physical health of our community.”

The first steps in the diocesan plan include the following measures for churches in the yellow phase:

  • Limited funeral Masses and weddings continue, with cleaning/sanitizing guidelines in place, expanding to groups of no more than 25 people.
  • Churches will be permitted to open for private prayer with safety guidelines in place including seating in designated areas only, the use of masks, hand sanitizers, and social distancing.
  • Churches will be permitted to open for Confessions – Confessionals do not meet public health safety requirements, and as such, Confessions will be heard at posted times and in a manner that preserves the sanctity of the Sacrament. Penitents must practice social distancing and all other safety guidelines.
  • Baptisms can be scheduled but with the restriction of one family baptism per each ceremony and no more than 25 people present. Great care must be given to social distancing, wearing masks, and sanitization precautions.
  • Livestream Masses and prayer services will continue.

Currently, Beaver County is the only county in the area that remains under red strictions. Other counties in Western Pennsylvania move to the yellow phase on Friday, May 15.

In addition to the gradual reopening of churches, Zubik also announced plans to return to public celebrations of daily mass beginning on June 1 and resuming weekend mass on June 6 and 7.

“It fills my heart with so much joy to think of the doors of our Churches opening once again,” said Bishop David Zubik. I’ve heard from so many who have missed praying in their parishes. I’ve missed it, too.”

Churches were forced to close their doors as the Coronavirus pandemic spread and public gatherings had to be restricted and stay-at-home orders were issued for the state. 

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