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 Bishop David Zubik is 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 with more than 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, Diocese of Pittsburgh churches 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.
 
“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,” Bishop Zubik said.  “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.”

Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf announced on May 29, 2020 that 16 counties in western and central Pennsylvania, including much of the Pittsburgh area, will move to the green phase of reopening on June 5.  In our diocese, Allegheny, Butler, Greene, and Washington Counties will be joining Lawrence County, which moved into the green phase on Friday, May 29. Beaver County will remain in yellow. 
 
The green phase does not mean that everything is back to what we once knew as normal. Under the green phase, restaurants and bars, hair salons, barbershops, gyms, spas, wellness facilities, casinos, theaters and shopping malls are all allowed to open, but they must limit occupancy to 50%. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines must continue to be followed.  Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said people will still need to wear masks and remain vigilant to potential spread.
 
Although churches, synagogues, temples, mosques and other places of congregate worship are specifically excluded from the limitations established by the state order, religious institutions are strongly encouraged to enforce social distancing and other mitigation measures.
 
As such,  all current diocesan reopening guidelines, outlined in the “Moving Forward Together Guide,” remain in effect until further notice.  In these changing times, Bishop David is asking you to support you pastor and his parish team work through the reopening transitions.  Please consult your parish office or website for more information regarding its plans.

Priests in the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh are preparing to begin offering daily Mass on Monday, June 1, and weekend Masses on June 6 and 7, as allowable in Phase 2 of the diocesan reopening plan.  In continued alignment with local, state, and federal health and safety guidelines, Bishop David Zubik is announcing the following additional directives:
 

• Monday, June 1, 2020:  Churches may open for daily Mass, in addition to private prayer and confessions, weddings, funerals, and baptisms, with no more than 25 people in attendance.  Social distancing of six feet and all other safety guidelines must be followed.

• Saturday, June 6 and Sunday, June 7, 2020, until further notice:  Churches may open for weekend Masses, respecting social distancing of six feet, which equates to about 25% capacity. Each pastor will assess his specific situation and determine a method for keeping track of the number of people attending and controlling attendance so it does not exceed allowable limits.

• Monday, June 8, 2020, until further notice:  Daily Mass attendance is allowed to increase to 25% of the church seating capacity, maintaining social distancing, and all other safety directives.  As the weeks progress, the percentage rate may increase based on the smoothness of this reopening process.

Reminders:

• The dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass remains in effect.

• Live streaming Masses will continue.

• This is a fluid situation, and Bishop Zubik, in consultations with a diocesan COVID-19 Task Force, will continue to monitor and evaluate the reopening process and make adjustments as warranted.

• In all phases of reopening, the Diocese of Pittsburgh will remain in alignment with local, state, and federal public health and safety guidelines. Parishioners will be required to wear masks, use hand sanitizer, and maintain social distancing of six feet (side-to-side, as well as front and back).

• Although beginning June 1 churches are permitted to open for daily Mass, it should not be expected that all churches in the Diocese of Pittsburgh will do so.  The decision to reopen a church rests with pastors, who need to base their decisions on a number of factors including their ability to comply with CDC cleaning and sanitizing protocols.  The diocese is offering support to pastors and parish teams as they assess their spaces and their ability to meet all safety requirements.

Returning to churches will be a very different experience, and to support parishioners in understanding what to expect, the diocese has a new Moving Forward Together area on its website geared toward helping parishioners with what to expect as they return to worship together in church. Those resources are available here: https://diopitt.org/moving-forward-together.
 
"I ask for your continued prayers and patience as we find our way back home to our churches together," Bishop Zubik said.  "May knowing that Jesus is there waiting for us in the Holy Eucharist give us the strength we need to continue to navigate through these challenging times. I'd also like to offer a word of appreciation for our clergy and their parish teams for all their hard work.  I know they are eager to celebrate Mass together once again, as am I."
 

In a conference call with priests and deacons this afternoon, Bishop David Zubik shared more details regarding the strategic plan for the gradual reopening of Churches in the diocese, including additions to current directives that will be in effect starting tomorrow, May 15, as well as more clarity regarding the timeline for opening for celebrations of the Holy Mass.
 
"We are eager to return to the comfort of our Churches and join together in prayer as a source of spiritual strength to support us through the suffering and anxiety caused by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Bishop Zubik said. “We are working with health agencies and in coordination with other religious leaders to proceed in a way that tends to spiritual health, while protecting the physical health of our community.”
 
Tomorrow, Allegheny, Butler, Greene, and Washington counties join Lawrence county in moving to the state’s “yellow” level of reopening.  Beaver county remains in “red” until further notice, with the strictest stay-at-home orders still in place. The Commonwealth will continually evaluate the reopening process and make necessary adjustments county-by-county. This means, our parishes throughout the diocese may be in different phases of reopening at any given time.

Starting tomorrow, May 15, 2020, the first phase of the diocesan reopening plan for the counties in the state’s “yellow” level of reopening includes the following:

• Limited funeral Masses and weddings continue, with cleaning/sanitizing guidelines in place, expanding to groups of no more than 25 people.
• Churches will be permitted to open for private prayer with safety guidelines in place including seating in designated areas only, the use of masks, hand sanitizers, and social distancing.
• Churches will be permitted to open for Confessions. Confessionals do not meet public health safety requirements, and as such, Confessions will be heard at posted times and in a manner that preserves the sanctity of the Sacrament.  Penitents must practice social distancing and all other safety guidelines.
• Baptisms can be scheduled but with the restriction of one family baptism per each ceremony and no more than 25 people present. Great care must be given to social distancing, wearing masks, and sanitization precautions.
• Livestream Masses and prayer services will continue.

 
A diocesan COVID-19 Task Force team has developed a comprehensive reference guide, called “Moving Forward Together.”  This document, which will be released tomorrow (May 15), details health and safety guidelines that will need to be met as Churches reopen for in-person liturgical celebrations.  The guidelines will be reviewed by pastors and priests, and posted for the faith community, so they know their part in creating safe prayer environments.
 
Diocesan leadership will assist and support Pastors as they make decisions on reopening based on government guidelines specific to their county, as well as their own assessment of the ability to meet all necessary health and safety requirements including wearing masks and honoring social distancing requirements.
 
Moving forward from this phase, the diocese will look to return to the public celebration of the Holy Mass, starting with daily Masses on Monday, June 1, 2020, and a goal of recommencing weekend Masses the weekend of June 6 and 7, 2020.  More details will be released closer to those dates.
 
“It fills my heart with so much joy to think of the doors of our Churches opening once again,” said Bishop David Zubik. I’ve heard from so many who have missed praying in their parishes.  I’ve missed it, too.”

In continued alignment with local and state public health and wellness guidelines and recommendations, the Diocese of Pittsburgh is preparing to allow Churches to reopen for private prayer, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation, as well as continuing directives regarding small weddings and funeral Masses. 

“Our strategic reopening plan will be done in phases based on comprehensive recommendations from a diocesan COVID-19 Task Force Team in coordination and consultation with state and regional health care leaders,” said Bishop David Zubik.

The changes will take effect Friday, May 15, when four more counties in the diocese – Allegheny, Butler, Greene, and Washington – will move to the state’s “yellow” level of reopening.  Lawrence county moved to yellow today, May 8.  Beaver county remains in “red” until further notice, with the strictest stay-at-home orders still in place.
 
“We rejoice to move with care to our experience of the Eucharistic community of the Church in the celebration of Mass and the sacraments. The decision to suspend public Masses and close Church buildings was truly heartbreaking, but it was made with the health and wellbeing of the community in mind.  We have, and will continue to be vigilant in doing our part to help 'flatten the curve' of the spread of COVID-19. Through all of this we have seen, in so many ways, that Christ is with us always,” Bishop Zubik said.

The Bishop established the diocesan COVID-19 Task Force to develop a strategic plan, timeline, and guidelines for welcoming people back to Churches safely.  The plan is divided into phases that encompass liturgical, and cleaning and sanitization guidelines that must be met for reopening.  The guidelines will be reviewed by pastors and priests, and posted for the faith community, so they know their part in creating safe prayer environments.
 
The first phase, starting May 15, includes the following:

• All previous directives remain in effect.
• Limited funeral Masses and weddings continue, with cleaning/sanitizing guidelines in place, expanding to groups of no more than 25 people.
• Churches will be permitted to open for private prayer with safety guidelines in place including seating in designated areas only, the use of masks, hand sanitizers, and social distancing.
• Churches open for Confessions – Confessionals do not meet public health safety requirements, and as such, Confessions will be heard at posted times and in a manner that preserves the sanctity of the. Sacrament.  Penitents must practice social distancing and all other safety guidelines.
• Livestream Masses and prayer services will continue.

Again, parishes will be permitted to reopen after meeting cleaning and sanitizing guidelines, and informing visitors they must follow public health directives including wearing masks, and honoring social distancing requirements. 
 
Moving forward from this phase, the diocese will look to return to the public celebration of the Holy Mass, with changes in place to allow for a safe experience, respectful of social distancing, and health and hygiene guidelines. More details will be released as we come closer to the next phase.
 
“Although we are all so eager to get back to some sense of normal,” said Bishop Zubik, “we recognize that these sacrifices have been essential to keeping each other safe during this deadly pandemic.  I am greatly appreciative of all in our faith community who have shown a great amount of patience during this unprecedented time.
 
“Perhaps now more than ever before, every one of us and especially our families, are called to deepen their prayer life.  Prayer can change hearts and the world,” Bishop Zubik said.

A MESSAGE FROM BISHOP ZUBIK
April 24, 2020

As we enter another week enduring the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, our physical, financial and spiritual health continues to be challenged. I hold all of you in daily prayer, asking God to bring protection and comfort to you and your families as we navigate through this time.

In my reflections, I’ve been focusing on where we have been, where we are and where we are going in the Diocese of Pittsburgh. We are being challenged. How will we respond?  (To read further, CLICK HERE.)

Bishop David Zubik Announces Changes in Sacramental Offerings in the Diocese of Pittsburgh
April 23, 2020

As local, state, and national health authorities are developing gradual reopening plans for our communities and economies, Bishop David Zubik of the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh is announcing new directives that allow for limited public celebrations of certain sacraments. 

“We have been examining how we can best carry out our mission and ministry while maintaining compliance with government restrictions.  These changes represent a safe way for us to begin.  We will continue to evaluate the evolving situation and update everyone about further changes,” Bishop Zubik said.
 
The following changes are effective immediately in the Diocese of Pittsburgh: 

• Weddings: As announced last week, in exceptional circumstances, weddings may be celebrated with no more than ten people including the priest/deacon officiant. Couples must be advised that once the ritual of matrimony is celebrated it cannot be repeated.  As such, a Mass of Thanksgiving sometime after the actual wedding ceremony may/should be planned if the couple wishes for more than ten people to gather for a celebration.

• Funerals: In exceptional circumstances, funerals with a Mass may be scheduled but with the limit of ten people or fewer.  It should also be noted that the cemeteries are still closed for public interments until the restrictions are lifted.

• Confessions: The Sacrament of Penance may be celebrated but only outdoors, either in parking lots or another place where social distancing (six feet apart) is absolutely respected.  Confessions cannot be celebrated in church, in the rectory, or within any parish building. 

Until further notice, church buildings cannot be reopened, and the suspension of the public celebration of the Holy Mass remains in place out of concern for the protection and safety of the faithful.
 
Carrying out these directives will be at the discretion of individual parish administrators, who will communicate with families to determine the best way to assist them with their needs.  People should contact their pastor with questions. Of course, besides these directives from a religious perspective, all local, state, and federal guidelines must be observed.
 
“As we look forward to the day when we can all join together in our parishes to celebrate Holy Masses again, I remain concerned for the protection of the health of our community.  We want to keep everyone healthy, and we want to make sure that we do not put ourselves in a position to advance the contagion,” Bishop Zubik said.
 

One of the priests in the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh who had been in isolation after exposure to someone in the faith community who tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) has tested positive for the virus and continues to follow quarantine guidelines. Father Adam Potter, Parochial Vicar of the Greenfield, Hazelwood, Oakland grouping, as well as chaplain for Oakland Catholic High School in Oakland received the news about his positive test today, March 29, 2020.
 
Yesterday, another priest, Father Thomas Gramc, Parochial Vicar of the Dormont, Mount Lebanon, Scott Township grouping, as well as chaplain for Seton La Salle High School also began isolation, after he and Father Potter showed mild symptoms.  Neither priest has had any contact with students or faculty of the high schools, since their closure on March 13. Information is being shared with those who may have had contact with the priests. Father Gramc is being tested for coronavirus.
 
As a result, the entire clergy teams at the parish groupings of (Saint Paul Cathedral-Oakland, St. Regis-Oakland, St. Rosalia-Greenfield, St. Stephen-Hazelwood) and (Saint Bernard in Mount Lebanon, Our Lady of Grace-Scott Township) began 14-day voluntary quarantine yesterday, March 28, 2020.
 
Out of an abundance of caution and concern that these situations could be replicated in other parishes and parish groupings, Bishop David Zubik yesterday issued modifications to the Diocese of Pittsburgh’s coronavirus response policies including the directive that all churches be locked until further notice, the suspension of the public celebration of all sacraments including reconciliation, and the immediate suspension of weddings, funeral services, and baptisms until further notice.
 
“Although we are not able to celebrate the sacraments publicly due to extraordinary circumstances, Jesus is still with us and working through us,” Bishop Zubik said.
 
Live-stream celebrations of Masses from the diocese and other parishes not affected by the quarantine will continue.  More details on the new directives can be found in a letter from the Bishop to priests, deacons, and seminarians, available at www.diopitt.org.

To access the Bishop's Letter to Priests, Deacons & Seminarians, CLICK HERE.

Two clergy teams are in self-quarantine and two priests in the Diocese of Pittsburgh are in isolation after exposure to someone in the faith community who tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19) on March 27.  Father Adam Potter, who is the Parochial Vicar of the Greenfield, Hazelwood, Oakland grouping, as well as the chaplain for Oakland Catholic High School in Oakland; and Father Thomas Gramc, Parochial Vicar of Dormont, Mount Lebanon, Scott Township grouping, as well as chaplain at Seton La Salle High School have shown mild symptoms.  Both are being tested. Information is being shared with those who may have had contact with the priests. Both High Schools have been closed since March 13. Neither priest has had any contact with students or faculty since then.
     
The entire clergy teams at the parish groupings of (Saint Paul Cathedral-Oakland, St. Regis-Oakland, St. Rosalia-Greenfield, St. Stephen-Hazelwood) and (Saint Bernard in Mount Lebanon, Our Lady of Grace-Scott Township) have begun their 14-day voluntary quarantine today, March 28 , 2020.  Out of an abundance of caution and concern that these situations could be replicated in other parishes and parish groupings, Bishop David Zubik has issued the following modifications to the Diocese of Pittsburgh’s coronavirus response policies:

• While livestream celebrations of Masses from each of those affected parish groupings will cease effective immediately and until further notice, livestream Masses and worship services from the diocese and other parishes will continue.
• All opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation in churches or church parking lots are immediately suspended at all parishes in the Diocese of Pittsburgh.
• All church buildings in the Diocese of Pittsburgh are to be locked until further notice, due to the fact that we are told that the virus can live on surfaces for an extended period of time.
• All Funeral Masses or services in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, inclusive of those at funeral homes, are immediately cancelled until further notice. Direct burials of the deceased should be celebrated with memorial Masses to occur at a later time.
• All Baptism ceremonies in the Diocese of Pittsburgh are suspended immediately and until further notice.  In cases of emergency (in danger of death), people should contact their priest for guidance.
• All Wedding ceremonies in the Diocese of Pittsburgh are suspended immediately and until further notice. Parishes will be working directly with all couples who have scheduled weddings.
• The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick may occur only in the case of immediate danger of death.

 “Several weeks ago, when I had to suspend the celebration of public Masses, I said it was the most difficult decision I have had to make as a Bishop. Today’s decisions are equally excruciating. Our pastoral responsibility requires us to provide for the needs of those entrusted to our care.  The most critical care we can offer to our people at this moment is to do all that we can to keep them connected with God and each other and to keep them safe in that care,” Bishop David Zubik said.
     
Further information is found in a letter from Bishop Zubik to the clergy and seminarians available at www.diopitt.org.

In respect of, and in cooperation with, government health and safety guidelines related to the coronavirus (COVID-19), Bishop David Zubik is releasing the following details for Holy Week in the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh.  The directives represent changes in the observances of long-standing, honored traditions in the Catholic Church.

“Although we will observe Holy Week in a different way, the heart of the sacred week remains intact.  Jesus is bringing people together in new ways to honor the great sacrifice of Jesus in His Passion and Death,” Bishop Zubik said.
 
Liturgies leading up to and including the Easter Vigil and Easter Sunday mark the most important week in the Catholic Church. The holiest three days of the year, known as the Triduum, are celebrated from the evening of Holy Thursday through the Easter Vigil.  The focus of Holy Week is a remembrance of the suffering and death of Jesus, leading to a deepened experience of the joy of His Resurrection on Easter.
 
For this year’s Holy Week in the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh:

• Bishop Zubik will live stream Masses and Prayer Services that people will be able to watch through the diocesan website.  A list of parishes with live stream schedules will also be shared at www.diopitt.org.
• All previous directives will remain in effect to adhere to the current government recommendation of no more than ten people gathered. For this reason, there will be no public celebration of liturgies.
• Churches will not be open during scheduled Masses/liturgies but may remain open at other times for individuals who wish to make a short visit. People should contact their parishes to confirm times.
• Palm Sunday, April 5, 2020:  Bishop Zubik will celebrate a Mass that will be live streamed at 10 a.m. Priests throughout the diocese will also celebrate private Palm Sunday Masses and bless palms which will be made available for people to pick up at a later date when restrictions are lifted.
• Holy Thursday, April 9, 2020:  Bishop Zubik will celebrate the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper, live streamed at 7:00 p.m.  The Washing of the Feet, which is optional, will be omitted from observances this year.
• Good Friday, April 10, 2020:  Bishop Zubik will celebrate Friday of the Passion of the Lord, live streamed at 3:00 p.m.
• Holy Saturday, April 11, 2020: The traditional ecumenical blessing over the City of Pittsburgh is postponed and will be rescheduled once the restrictions are lifted.  There will be no blessing of Easter baskets. Bishop Zubik will celebrate the Easter Vigil, live streamed at 8:30 p.m.
• Easter Sunday, April 12, 2020:  Bishop Zubik will celebrate Holy Mass, live streamed at 10:00 a.m. The annual Blessing of Families at St. Paul Cathedral is cancelled.

“Our commemoration of Holy Week is always meant to reawaken in our hearts the great sacrifice of the Passion and Death of Jesus leading to the exhilarating experience of His Resurrection.  This year, and in light of the unusual sacrifices we have had to make because of COVID-19, it is my hope that we can more deeply cherish the sacrifices Jesus has made for us as we hope to share in His Resurrection when we breathe our last,” Bishop Zubik said.

The Diocese of Pittsburgh and its parishes are feeling the negative impact due to a sharp decline in weekly offertory donations since the suspension of public Masses because of government restrictions associated with the coronavirus.  To help Catholics support their local parishes, the Diocese of Pittsburgh is working with them to set up online donation areas on their individual websites. People will also be able to donate to parishes, schools, or diocesan ministries of their choice, at the main diocesan website: https://www.diopitt.org/help, with an option for one-time or recurring gifts. People who prefer traditional means will still be able to mail financial gifts to their parishes. 

Donations to The Bishop’s Coronavirus Emergency Fund will provide an extra layer of financial support to parishes that are struggling. Funding will also help our Catholic schools, and staffing necessary to support the mission of the Church. 

“Our website partners at eCatholic tell me that parishes in other areas that have been using the eGiving platform receive 40-60% of their collections online. Those parishes have been able to maintain or even increase their funding through this health crisis.  Here in our diocese, only about 10% of our parishes are set up for online giving. We are blessed to have generous people in Pittsburgh who want to give. We need to work quickly to make it easy and safe for more people to do so,” said Jennifer Antkowiak, Executive Director of Communications and Community Relations. 

Administrators are having to make difficult decisions regarding staffing and services in an effort to manage many financial challenges. Diocesan pastoral staff is already working with parishes and parish groupings to provide resources for successful business plan assistance. Cost-cutting methods, including layoffs at the parish and diocesan level may be needed. 
  
“Suspending public Masses in our diocese was a heartbreaking decision from a spiritual standpoint.  It was also frightening from a financial standpoint, yet it was a needed decision for the health and safety of our community. That was the priority,” Bishop David Zubik said. “Like other Catholic dioceses around the country, we have been experiencing a decline in Mass attendance, and offertory collections for months.  I knew that suspending Masses would create an even greater financial strain but given the nature of the health threat posed by COVID-19, it was the right thing to do.” 
  
In an effort to provide spiritual care, the diocese and many individual parishes are moving Masses and prayer services online, with live stream and recording viewing options. “As a pastor, my biggest concern is that some people are perceiving that God has turned His back on us, and so we should turn our back on Him.  Nothing could be further from the truth.  He is with us through it all, working to give us a greater understanding as a Church, of what others are experiencing,” Bishop Zubik said.  “ With God as our Father, just like any family, we will work together to navigate through these challenges. I thank everyone, in advance, for their support.”

Day of Fasting and Prayer
March 24 and 25, 2020

In prayerful and sacrificial response to the COVID-19 pandemic,
Bishop David Zubik has called for a diocesan Day of Fasting to take place on Tuesday, March 24, 2020
and a diocesan Day of Prayer on Wednesday, March 25, 2020, the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord.
 
Priests in the Diocese of Pittsburgh are asked to ring their church bells
for five minutes at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25, 2020 in an act of solidarity and hope. 

You are invited to listen for the bells, and to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet.

Bishop David Zubik Releases Pastoral Letter, Announces Day of Fasting and Day of Prayer
March 20, 2020

Bishop David Zubik has released his Pastoral Letter: “The Other Side of Corona” in response to fears, worries, and anxieties surrounding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19).   
  
In his letter, the Bishop invites people to reflect on a hope-filled definition of the word “corona”.   For Catholics, the word corona traditionally means the crown of Mary, Mother of Jesus.  “Corona is a sign that God is with us through everything we experience in life, wherever we are, whatever we do, whoever we are! We are never alone,” Bishop Zubik said.  
  
The Bishop also calls people to think of this time as an opportunity to pray most fervently.  “A time of dramatic action that affects our daily lives—closure of business, working from home, cancellation of school, a suspension of most Church activities, particularly the celebration of public Masses—and even a self-quarantine or the loss of employment—is an opportunity to deepen our relationship with Jesus,” he said.  
  
“The Other Side of Corona” highlights examples of prayers that focus on asking God for support and healing, including that “God may protect us from a spread of the virus.  That God may extend His love and care for others through us, and that God may comfort all of us whose lives are disrupted in the path of the virus.”  
  
In the letter, Bishop Zubik refers to having to make an announcement on March 15, 2020, that “broke his heart”; suspending public Mass in the Diocese of Pittsburgh until further notice in an effort to follow health guidelines and protect people from the spread of COVID-19.  “As painful as it is to be deprived of the Mass, we are followers of the Great Physician who would never want us to risk making others seriously ill,” the Bishop said.   
  
A variety of alternative ways to pray, worship, and live the Catholic faith are also included in the Pastoral Letter.  It can be downloaded at the Diocese of Pittsburgh website (https://diopitt.org/the-other-side-of-corona). 
  

Special Days of Fasting and Prayer in the Diocese of Pittsburgh 
  
Tuesday, March 24, 2020:  Day of Fasting 
Bishop Zubik has announced a Day of Fasting for protection against the coronavirus and for all who are suffering in its wake.  
  
Wednesday, March 25, 2020, The Feast of the Annunciation:  Day of Prayer 
A number of suggestions and resources for that day are listed on the diocesan website (https://diopitt.org/day-of-fasting-and-prayer). 
  
“I chose this particular day because it is on that day that we remember the Archangel Gabriel’s revelation to the Virgin Mary that she would be the mother of Jesus. That announcement brought great disruption, hardship and fear into the life of Mary—and Joseph too. Yet they responded with a faith that led to our salvation. Being able to identify with their disruption, hardship and fear, my hope is that we can all imitate their response with faith too!” Bishop Zubik said.  

To view the Letter from Bishop Zubic to the Diocese of Pittsburgh titled The Other Side of Corona, CLICK HERE.

Bishop David Zubik Issues New Directives
Regarding Confession, General Absolution, and Lenten Friday Obligation
March 19, 2020

In continuing response to coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns, and with a heart to preserve the Mission of the Catholic Church, Bishop David Zubik announced the following directives for the Diocese of Pittsburgh today. All directives are effective immediately and until further notice.


Priests are Permitted to Offer the Sacrament of Reconciliation in Church Parking Lots
Priest are permitted to hear confessions in church parking lots, following specific guidelines to preserve the sanctity of the sacrament. The guidelines for priests include directions for a set up that allows for anonymity and privacy. “Our faithful need reassurance of God’s mercy now more than ever,” Bishop Zubik said. Bishop Zubik is also asking that members of the media respect the sacred nature of the sacrament, and the confidentiality of the penitents, and not appear at any parish sites.


General Absolution
Today, Cardinal Mauro Piacenza, Prefect of the Apostolic Penitentiary, issued a note regarding the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the current pandemic of COVID-19. He addressed the possible need for general absolution. He noted that general absolution without prior individual confession cannot be imparted except where there is an imminent danger of death because there is not enough time to hear confessions of individual penitents.

He then went on to write: “This Apostolic Penitentiary believes that, especially in the places most affected by the pandemic contagion and until the phenomenon recedes, the cases of serious need mentioned in can. 961, § 2 CIC above mentioned, will occur.”

This means that the Apostolic Penitentiary recognizes the need in some places for the use of general or collective absolution. However, it is for the diocesan bishop to determine if and when the grave necessity exists for the use of general absolution.

Bishop Zubik believes that this necessity does exist in some places in the Diocese of Pittsburgh. “Therefore, in hospitals, nursing homes and other healthcare facilities, where a priest is not allowed to personally interact with patients or staff due to COVID-19 restrictions, he may grant general absolution. The faithful are to know that he is offering absolution and his voice should be able to be heard by those receiving absolution, this could be over a PA system or by some other means. If a priest imparts general absolution, he is to inform penitents of the need to confess serious sins at the earliest possible moment,” Bishop Zubik said.


Anointing of the Sick in Care Facilities
Diocese of Pittsburgh Priests have expressed concerns about restrictions being placed on them being able to celebrate the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick in nursing homes and hospitals. Today, Bishop Zubik contacted the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference and asked that they intervene with the Governor, requesting an exemption to clergy from the current ban.


Obligation to Abstain from Meat on Lenten Fridays with the Exception of Good Friday
Bishop Zubik is dispensing from the obligation to abstain from meat on Lenten Fridays with the exception of Good Friday. “As you are aware, many of the shelves and cases in our supermarkets are sparse if not empty. This is a time when pastoral necessity has informed my decision effective today,” the Bishop said.

Diocese of Pittsburgh Clarifies Event Cancellations
March 17, 2020

As a clarification of a previous announcement regarding the cancellation of all parish activities in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, fish fries and the Stations of the Cross are to be cancelled effective immediately.
     
These decisions are based on the latest information and health agency requirements in the wake of the coronavirus.

"My main priority and consideration with these decisions is for the safety and well-being of our priests, deacons, parishioners, and, indeed, the whole community," Bishop David Zubik said.

Bishop David Zubik Issues Directives for Sacraments and Parish Activities
March 16, 2020

With a continuing commitment to protect health and safety due to coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns, and in the wake of suspending all public Masses in the diocese until further notice, today Bishop Zubik issued directives regarding sacraments and other parish activities. 
  
The following guidelines are effective immediately and until further notice: 
  
Baptism 
The celebration of the Sacrament of Baptism, outside of Mass, is permitted.  In order to limit any potential spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) to a vulnerable population, only a small private family baptism should be held. Multiple baptisms of several children from different families is not permitted. All state and local government-imposed restrictions on the number of people at public gatherings are to be obeyed. 
  
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) 
RCIA Instructors will communicate with those preparing to be received in the church with further details.  
  
Sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Communion 
All First Reconciliations and First Communions for the month of March are to be postponed and rescheduled at another date. Dates for First Reconciliation and First Communion after April 1, 2020 will be determined in the future depending on the circumstances surrounding the coronavirus. 
  
Sacrament of Confirmation 
All scheduled confirmations for the month of March are postponed and will be rescheduled.  Confirmation dates after April 1, 2020 will be determined in the future depending on circumstances surrounding the coronavirus. 
  
Sacrament of Reconciliation 
The Light is on for You, scheduled for April 1, 2020 has been cancelled. Parishes will be offering regularly scheduled times for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Health guidelines regarding social distancing will be followed.   
  
Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick 
Communal celebration of the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is suspended until further notice. Priests will offer Anointing of the Sick on an individual basis following health and safety guidelines related to coronavirus. 
  
Funerals and Weddings 
Until further notice, weddings and funerals may proceed but attendance should be limited to immediate family. All state and local government-imposed restrictions on the number of people at public gatherings are to be obeyed.  
  
Parish Events and Activities 
In compliance with the requests of governmental leaders and sound medical practices, parishes must cancel all scheduled events until further notice. 
  
Church Buildings 
While churches will remain open for private prayer, including adoration, there will be no scheduled “services” that would bring people together at a specific time. Social distancing must be maintained if people attend church for private prayer. 


“During this time of unknowns, concerns about access to the sacraments have created anxiety among the faithful. We will be working to reassure people and help them with ways to live and strengthen their faith during this unprecedented time. I continue to ask all of us to come together in prayer, especially with the intercession of the Blessed Mother and Saint Joseph to guide and protect us,” Bishop Zubik said.

For Release: March 15, 2020

All Masses in the Diocese of Pittsburgh Cancelled
Bishop David Zubik Calls for a Day of Prayer

In light of increasing updates on and concerns about the coronavirus (COVID-19), Bishop David Zubik has made the decision to cancel all weekday and Sunday Masses in the Diocese of Pittsburgh effective Monday, March 16, 2020, until further notice. Arrangements are being made to live stream more Masses in the days ahead.

“Although in many ways it saddens me to make this decision, given the best advice from health experts on federal, state, and local levels, I feel it is a necessary one at this time. I’m counting on the understanding and cooperation of all in the Diocese of Pittsburgh as we pray for each other. At this difficult time, we especially are relying on the intercession of Mary, Mother of Jesus and Mother of the Church, and Saint Joseph, foster father of Jesus and Patron of the Universal Church,” Bishop Zubik said.

Bishop Zubik is calling for a special day of prayer in the Diocese of Pittsburgh on Wednesday, March 25, 2020, the Feast of the Annunciation, a great feast of the Blessed Mother. More information will be forthcoming.

Directives about the celebration of the sacraments of Baptism, Penance, Confirmation, Anointing of the Sick, as well as appropriate pastoral attention to funerals and weddings will be forthcoming Monday, March 16.

March 12, 2020 update per Bishop Zubik:
“Following a joint conference call with all the bishops of Pennsylvania, effective immediately and until further notice, I wish to share with you that in union with all my brother bishops I am dispensing the faithful of the Diocese of Pittsburgh from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass.  Despite the suspension of the obligation to attend Sunday Mass, all regularly scheduled Masses will remain open to the public for those who wish to attend.  Regarding other sacramental events, such as confirmation, further announcements will be forthcoming in the near future.  With this announcement, it is most important that we increase our personal prayer and fasting as we look to God as our strength in this critical time.”   (source)

The Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh has cancelled nonessential, diocesan-sponsored gatherings effective Monday, March 16, 2020. Pending further developments, Masses, confessions, religious education and Catholic school classes will continue, with previously-announced coronavirus precautions in place.  Parishes are encouraged to do the same. Because this is a fluid and emergent situation, Catholics should expect frequent updates. (source)

As issued on March 2, 2020 by Bishop Zubik, the following directives are to be followed throughout the Diocese of Pittsburgh until further notice: 

• The distribution of the Precious Blood during the Eucharist is temporarily suspended.  
• The exchange of the Sign of Peace through physical contact (typically a handshake) is temporarily suspended.
• Holy water fonts should be cleaned and drained on a weekly basis.
• Those who feel ill are not obligated to attend Sunday Mass.  In the interest of the health of your faith community, they should stay home until they are well. 

These precautions are in effect immediately and will continue as long as necessary.