Diocese makes temporary changes for coronavirus and flu season
Milford. Holy Communion has been suspended, and parishioners will do the Sign of Peace without physical contact, according to a directive issued Tuesday by Bishop Joseph C. Bambera.
Milford /
| 03 Mar 2020 | 02:53
During flu season, parishioners will do the Sign of Peace (as pictured) without physical contact in the Diocese of Scranton, according to a directive by Bishop Bambera.
As public health officials in Pennsylvania and beyond continue to track the coronavirus (COVID-19) and widespread flu activity, Bishop Joseph C. Bambera of the Diocese of Scranton on Tuesday announced new precautions for the celebration of Mass in the 11 counties of the Diocese of Scranton.
The diocese includes Saint Patrick Parish in Milford, Saint Joseph Parish in Matamoras, Saint Vincent de Paul Parish in Milford, and St. John Neumann in Lords Valley.
Effective immediately, Bishop Bambera has implemented the following directives:
Holy Communion (the distribution of the Precious Blood via the Chalice) is temporarily suspended.
The Sign of Peace will now be exchanged without physical contact.
In addition, Bishop Bambera also issues the following reminders:
Parishioners are also reminded that if they are sick, especially with flu-like symptoms, they should stay home for their own well-being and that of others. If parishioners are sick or suspect they are sick with a contagious illness, they are not bound by the Sunday Mass obligation.
Priests, deacons and extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion should practice good hygiene, washing their hands before Mass begins or even using an alcohol based anti-bacterial solution before and after distributing Holy Communion
“As of today, it is important to emphasize that there are no confirmed cases of the coronavirus in Pennsylvania, but the situation across the country is changing rapidly,” Bishop Bambera said. “The safety and health of our local faith community and all of northeastern and north central Pennsylvnia is a priority for me.”
At this time, the Diocese is monitoring all information and updates being provided by federal, state and local government officials.
The new precautions will continue as long as deemed necessary by the Bishop.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and be ready to make any updates as needed,” Bishop Bambera said.
Practice good hygiene
Bishop Bambera reminds everyone of the basic personal hygiene practices outlined by the Pennsylvania Department of Health:
Cover coughs or sneezes with your elbow instead of hands.
Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
Clean surfaces frequently, including countertops, light switches, cell phones, remotes, and other frequently touched items.