Diocese of Pittsburgh Updates COVID-19 Guidelines

Diocese of Pittsburgh updates COVID-19 directives for parishes and schools
The Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh will take preliminary steps to ease COVID restrictions in schools and parishes while remaining committed to protecting everyone’s health and safety. Beginning in parishes on Saturday, February 26 and in diocesan elementary and high schools on Monday, February 28, masks will not be required, except in limited circumstances.
“For more than two years, the leaders in our parishes and schools have worked diligently to protect themselves, each other, and our community from COVID-19,” said Bishop David Zubik. “We have learned to create safe environments and to quickly adapt when outbreaks require us to exercise greater caution. We thank God that local infections have dropped and pray that our anticipated adjustments will be the first of many steps toward resuming ways of worship and learning that we have all missed so much.”
Effective for parishes on Saturday, February 26:
• Priests, deacons and liturgical ministers in the sanctuary as well as ushers and greeters will no longer be obligated to wear masks at Mass.
• Parishioners will again be invited to share the Sign of Peace.
• Laity can present the gifts of bread and wine used for consecration.
• The distribution of Precious Blood from the cup remains suspended at this time.
• All parish events outside of Mass may be held in-person. Livestream options for Mass and activities will continue for those who are unable to attend in person.