byMost Reverend Gerald M. Barbarito, Bishop of Palm Beach

Most Reverend Gerald M. Barbarito

Statement on Policies regarding Pandemic Restrictions

The progress regarding the decline in the spread of the coronavirus is very encouraging and a cause for optimism. Certainly, within our Diocese of Palm Beach, the caution taken by our pastors and all of our faithful have made a Catholic church one of the safest places to be.

As we approach what is, hopefully, a conclusion of the pandemic, care still needs to be taken to ensure its conclusion and to avoid an unnecessary reoccurrence. While, in the not-too-distant future, our Diocese will relax restrictions pertaining to the matter of church attendance and procedures in this regard, the current policies of protection remain in place. It is understood that prudent adaptations can be made on a local level involving minor matters. However, at the present time, there can be no relaxing of the need for wearing masks or proper distancing while in church.

I am deeply grateful for the invaluable assistance which all within our Diocese have afforded during this challenging time.