Buffalo, NY (WBEN) The Buffalo Catholic Diocese unveils a guidance for reopening parishes for mass once the coronavirus pandemic ends.
"It is essential that our parishioners feel welcome in their parish home. As such, we must prepare the space not only so that it is a familiar, comfortable experience, but that we also balance pastoral care with an eye to cleanliness, safety, and the common good," says the Diocese in a statement.
"We welcome the news that churches may begin welcoming back in small numbers those who are eager for the spiritual nourishment that our parishes provide," said Reverend Seán Paul Fleming, the Diocese's Director of Worship who has been leading the Diocesan working group on reopening plans. "We will be supporting our pastors throughout this process, mindful of the need to ensure that they do everything possible to mitigate the risks of the ongoing threat of the coronavirus, especially for those most vulnerable. Our many parishes across Western New York will need time to implement the necessary precautions and ensure that there is a consistent approach for safeguarding the health and safety of all who will now once again gather for liturgies and participation in the Church's sacraments."
The Diocese says communication is vital. "Parishioners must be made aware of each parish's plans for preparation prior to reopening and their arrival at the parish campus via whatever means are practical (letter, robocall, email, and/or social media)," says the Diocese. It adds each parish should have adequate supplies for cleaning public spaces, including door handles, but parishioners should be encouraged to bring disinfectant wipes with them to help in sanitizing the areas they occupy. Cleaning of high-use areas within the church is to be done before and after each Mass; with the diocese noting adjustment of the Mass schedule may be needed to ensure adequate time.
The dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass and other Holy Days of Obligation remains in effect and the opportunity to participate in live-streamed Masses continues.
