CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF GREENSBURG WILL RESUME IN-PERSON MASSES ON JUNE 1

The Catholic Diocese of Greensburg has announced the resumption of in-person Mass starting on June 1^st at its parish churches, with special rules in place.

Parishioners must wear masks and maintain a six-foot distance from one another, people will be seated at least in every other pew, communicants are encouraged to receive Communion in the hand,  and rather than a handshake, worshipers are encouraged to pass the Sign of Peace “with a reverential bow.”  and Bishop Edward C. Malesic says they may find it necessary to change still more.

Malesic says all people will remain dispensed from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass, pointing out that the dispensation is especially important for the elderly and those with medical conditions which could make them more vulnerable to coronavirus.

The diocese will continue to livestream services even after in-person masses begin.

FROM THE DIOCESE:

• Those who feel vulnerable because of their age or health are encouraged to stay home, while those who are sick should not attend public Masses. Streaming Masses will continue.
• People will be seated at least in every other pew using social distancing guidelines.
• All communicants will be encouraged to receive the Sacred Host in the hand.
• The chalice of the Precious Blood will not be offered to the congregation.
• The Sign of Peace will no longer include a handshake, instead we will turn to the person next to us and offer a reverential bow.
• Holy water and baptismal fonts will be drained.
• Musicians are being asked to limit music, and choirs are not permitted.
• At the discretion of the pastor, Masses are permitted in social halls, other large spaces and outdoors including parking lots.
• Confirmations and First Communions can recommence in July and should be divided into smaller groups if necessary. Receptions into the Church for RCIA can recommence immediately at the pastor’s discretion. Special consideration will be given to families who would like to delay sacramental celebrations until a later date.

Bishop Malesic encourages people to stay connected to their faith by watching a streaming Mass or by visiting TheAccentOnline.org regularly to read the latest news, checking the diocese website, or signing up for text alerts by texting the word FAITH to the number 724-305-3057.