Diocesan guidelines for COVID-19 remain in effect

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On March 25, Bishop Oscar A. Solis sent a memo to all priests, diocesan ministers and staff asking them “to continue to exercise common sense and prudent pastoral discretion in evaluating situations and slowly apply modifications in our practices regarding the pandemic.”

“The Diocese of Salt Lake City is taking cautious steps toward life after COVID-19 and eventual return to full public worship. Vigilance and abundant caution remain necessary to prevent a new surge of infections,” the bishop wrote.

Because of this, in the diocese, the dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass in-person on Sundays and holy days of obligation remains in effect until further notice. Those who do attend Mass in person must follow the proper social distancing guidelines and wear masks, the memo stated. In addition, pews and other frequently touched surfaces shall be cleaned or sanitized/disinfected after each Mass or service.

Because the situation has improved, priests now may anoint the sick, distribute Holy Communion to the homebound, visit the elderly in a safe manner, and help those in need. However, “baptisms, weddings, funerals, and other liturgical services will continue subject to the safety and health assessment from the diocese according to national and state directives, mindful of the wearing masks and physical distancing allowed,” the memo states.

“Given the ongoing uncertainty about the public health situation and the gradual lifting of restrictions, it will be necessary for every parish and school to give careful consideration to how the sacraments of First Reconciliation, First Holy Communion and Confirmation can be  celebrated in a safe and appropriate manner over the coming months,” the memo states. “This includes ensuring that all the necessary catechetical preparations or formations are fulfilled, rigorous risk assessments are undertaken and, where necessary, adding other celebrations to avoid overcrowding the church and with safe physical distancing.”

If there are new national, state and local directives, parishes should be ready to “allow more gatherings on church and parish properties with proper safeguards in place and in keeping with the diocesan directives and state/local health officials. Be ready to cancel these if local circumstances change or require it,” the memo states.

“As our nation emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, be on the lookout for further possible adjustments as circumstances change, hopefully for the better,” Bishop Solis wrote. “I reiterate the emphasis for continued caution and rigorous application of our current safeguards in place to ensure the safest possible return to public worship in our churches.”