Diocese announces further guidelines to combat coronavirus

After Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s executive order further banning public gatherings in New York State to combat the spread of COVID-19, the Diocese of Albany announced Saturday:

All events and opportunities to gather physically are prohibited.

All liturgies are canceled with the exception of Masses celebrated by the priest alone. This includes any scheduled time for the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

As funeral homes are exempt, funeral services with a minister may be provided at the funeral home and/or graveside as long as they abide by restrictions placed by civil authorities.

Churches may remain open, but must follow public restrictions currently in place (i.e., social distancing, not becoming a place of gathering, no congregate services, etc.). This allows individuals access for prayer.

The Celebration of the Chrism Mass is postponed to a later date yet to be determined.

Palm Sunday Masses are to be celebrated by the priest alone without the faithful in attendance.

The liturgies of the Sacred Triduum are currently under review and timely guidelines and instructions will be forthcoming.