START OF SOMETHING BIG

Babies crying and couples saying “I do” may soon be heard in churches across the Diocese of Albany.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Wednesday that churches and other houses of worship can start conducting services - with serious social distancing protocols -  as early as Thursday. The Diocese, however, said while it is still not ready to announce a date for when public Masses can resume, weddings, funerals and baptisms are a go.

“We are very glad to hear that Gov. Cuomo supports the resumption of church gatherings of 10 or fewer people, as well as parking lot gatherings. That being said, we are proceeding with caution to ensure the safety of our parishioners,” said Mary DeTurris Poust, director of communications for the Diocese of Albany. “We currently have guidelines for parishes in our 14-county Diocese and are in the process of preparing a second document that will address liturgical and sacramental issues in light of social distancing and safety precautions. 

“Although we are not yet ready to open parishes for Sunday worship, we do believe this easing of restrictions will allow for baptisms, funerals and weddings to proceed, all while respecting social distancing requirements. Our parishes will be submitting plans as to how they will be able to meet the diocesan guidelines we have issued for a safe reopening. Once we are confident we are in a position to do so in a responsible and safe manner, we will announce a reopening date.”

Let's take a look at what can be performed right now, using strict social distancing protocols, according to the Diocese of Albany:

WEDDINGS

The public celebration of weddings is permitted as long as all current governmental/health guidelines and directives are observed. Social distancing must remain in effect and no more than 10 people are allowed to be present. The bride and groom would not be required to wear a face mask (they are the ministers of the sacrament). The procession takes place in the usual way and the usual parts of the Rite itself should be observed. Avoid any unnecessary touching of objects such as the wedding rings. Programs and worship aids are not advised.

FUNERALS

The public celebration of funerals is permitted as long as all current governmental/health guidelines and directives are observed. Social distancing must remain in effect and no more than 10 people are allowed to be present. The usual entrance rites and other rites (Final Commendation, sprinkling with holy water, incensing etc.) should be observed, but the optional placing of the pall should be omitted. Pall bearers may accompany the casket into the church and as the casket is taken from the church.

BAPTISM 

If there is a pastoral need for the baptism of an infant to take place, only the necessary rites for a valid Baptism should be celebrated. Only the minister, infant, parents and godparents should be present. In the case of an emergency, anyone may baptize as long as the pouring of water and the valid Trinitarian formula: "N. I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit" is used. Keep the proper records so the baptism can be recorded in the proper parish.

RECONCILIATION

Confessions at scheduled times may be celebrated, provided that current governmental restrictions are observed, especially regarding social distancing and sanitizing. A temporary space within the church may need to be set up to allow this to happen. Since people may congregate or line up for confession, measures must be taken to maintain hygiene and social distancing. “Drive by” confessions are permitted, provided that all liturgical norms and governmental/health directives are followed.

CONFIRMATION

All spring confirmations remain postponed until the fall. 

SACRAMENTALS & DEVOTIONS

(Stations of the Cross, Rosary, Divine Mercy Chaplet, Communal Adoration, etc.).

Communal devotions are permitted, provided governmental/health guidelines and directives can be maintained (numbers, social distancing, sanitizing etc.). Prayer books or worship aids should not be used. Paper worship/prayer aids may be prepared. These should be disposed of immediately after. Individual/private devotions continue to be strongly encouraged, whether in a church or at home. Perpetual Adoration Chapels may be open where possible, but strict social distancing guidelines must be followed.