Statement regarding Governor’s announcement

May 21, 2020

We are grateful to learn through the Governor’s press conference today, May 20, 2020, that the topic of religious practice was addressed in the New York Forward plan. We are awaiting more information from the state which will help us determine how best we can resume Masses with the faithful present, albeit in some limited manner. Our parishes have begun implementing general protocols for how they will ensure social distancing, regulate the number of faithful who can be in attendance, and achieve the necessary cleaning regimens and safety standards for the well-being of all.

We continue to work with the other Dioceses in the New York province and the New York State Catholic Conference in obtaining the necessary information from the state. As noted in the Statement on behalf of the New York State Catholic Conference: “Our Catholic people are hungry for the Mass and are anxious to gather together again in prayer and worship. At the same time, we have a moral obligation to protect our congregations and our clergy from COVID-19, so we will proceed slowly and responsibly and collaboratively.”