PITTSBURGH (Newsradio 1020 KDKA) With the ongoing fight against the coronavirus pandemic, and the holiday season approaching, some of the usual traditions may be seeing some change.
The Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh has announced their own changes to Christmas Masses for 2020.
"For Christmas 2020, in alignment with the Holy See and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Committee on Divine Worship, Bishop David Zubik has granted permission for Christmas Vigil Masses to begin as early as 2:00 pm on December 24th in the Diocese of Pittsburgh."
The scheduling of an earlier Mass would not replace any traditionally scheduled Masses, rather an addition to any that are already scheduled.
Pastors will make decisions on the scheduling of each parish's Christmas Mass based on community needs and ability to properly staff the event.
Many parishes are continuing to livestream Masses, and that will continue into the Christmas season.
"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," Bishop Zubik said. "We in the Diocese of Pittsburgh are committed to reaching out to all to extend the Light that is Christ. Whether in person, or online, there will be many opportunities to stay connected to Jesus this Holy season."
