Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker last week announced that during Phase One of the state’s re-opening plan, houses of worship could begin resumption of services right away, with restrictions. The Diocese of Fall River has decided to resume the celebration of in-person Masses this weekend.
The diocese has laid out an extensive set of protocols to guide churches through the re-opening process. The Most Rev. Edgar da Cuhna, Bishop of Fall River, says parishes will need to ensure social distancing practices are maintained, with every other pew closed and parishioners mandated to wear masks and apply hand sanitizer upon entering church. Parish priests are being asked to limit occupancy for each Mass to 40% capacity and to encourage pre-registration for popular Mass times.
The Bishop also says parishioners will see a change in the distribution of Holy Communion.
Parish priests will be asked to shorten services when practical and to limit musical performances. The Bishop also says financial offertory will be handled with safety in mind.
With the resumption of weekly Massases will also come the resumption of funerals and weddings. Bishop da Cunha asks that if any parishioners have any questions to contact their local parish.
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