PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Pennsylvania Catholics are once again obligated to attend weekly in-person Mass. That comes despite Philadelphia reporting a two-week average of nearly 1,200 new cases of COVID-19.
Though parishioners were not obligated to return at the time, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia resumed in-person Mass in early June with precautions to limit the spread of the coronavirus.
But now, for the first time since March 2020, that obligation is back in effect, something many parishioners welcomed.
"We need this. When you're locked off or closed in you pray at home, but when you're in a religious environment, it's really more comforting. The words are coming at you from the Father and it's really nice," said Molly Miller. She attended the 8 a.m. Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Center City.
Miller said she felt comfortable going to her masked-up Mass, for the first time in quite some time.
"There's a lot of distancing in this church," she said. "It's a big place."
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Adam Gregor said that in-person Mass is something he's missed, and that he's happy for it.
"I think it's great. We've all been able to do distancing, but it's nice to get everyone back together as a congregation and have that sense of community again," he said.
Archbishop Nelson Pérez said the reinstatement does not apply to anyone who is seriously ill, has a serious health risk or has serious anxiety about worshipping in a large group.
Those who care for others who cannot attend Mass in person are also exempt. There still will be a broadcast version of the Mass for people unable to attend in person.
Many of the parishioners who spoke to KYW Newsradio said they not only plan to continue wearing their masks to Mass, they'll keep safe distances from others as well.