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July 2, 2020With additional mitigation efforts ordered for Allegheny County in the midst of a recent uptick in the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19, churches will stay open, but Bishop David Zubik is strongly urging parishioners to consider their own health, and the health of others when making the decision to go to Mass.
The new restrictions call for a one-week closure of bars, restaurants, and casinos and the cancellation of all activities or events with more than 25 people. The order takes effect at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, July 3, 2020, and also includes a voluntary stay-at-home protocol for people who live in Allegheny County.
Further, the official Order states, “this Order does not apply to religious gatherings held by churches, synagogues, temples, mosques, or other places of worship. Religious institutions remain subject to any requirements set forth by the Pennsylvania Department of Health.”
As such, Diocese of Pittsburgh churches in Allegheny County will remain open, at the discretion of the individual pastors, with continued strict adherence to federal, state, and local public health and safety guidelines, including:- Mandatory mask wearing (as reinforced by a Governor’s order issued July 1)
- Maintaining social distancing of at least 6 feet
- Following all cleaning and sanitizing procedures outlined in CDC guidelines
The Diocese of Pittsburgh has livestream Masses and spiritual resources available at www.diopitt.org.
“As pastor of the Church of Pittsburgh, I tend to the spiritual health of the faithful in our diocese, but during these times, I also am called to make decisions to protect the physical health of those in our community,” Bishop Zubik said. “These are challenging, and frustrating times. Let us call on Jesus to help us focus on Him and His love for us during this storm.”
