My dear brothers:
In light of the decision in Allegheny County announced today by Dr. Debra L. Bogen, Director of the Allegheny County Health Department, in which she announces further restrictions within Allegheny County because of the significant rise in confirmed cases of COVID-19, I thought it most important to share with you the impact of this statement on our churches and on all religious institutions.
With 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 I am 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 over 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, churches in the Diocese of Pittsburgh 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
As a reminder, the dispensation of the obligation to attend Mass is still in effect in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, and parishioners are urged to stay home if they are feeling ill.
The Diocese of Pittsburgh has livestream Masses and spiritual resources available at www.dioPITT.org< http://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. 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.
Thank you for taking note of this important information. My prayer is that you and all the people whom you serve remain safe and remain healthy.
Grateful for our continued efforts together in being On Mission for The Church Alive!, and for our belief that “Nothing is Impossible with God,” I am
Your brother in Christ,
Bishop of Pittsburgh
Most Reverend David A. Zubik
Bishop of Pittsburgh
111 Boulevard of the Allies
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
412-456-3010 (office)
412-456-3185 (fax)
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