The Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh has released updated saftey protocols as they relate to Covid-19. Bishop David Zubik announced the updates that became effective January 7 and will be continued until further notice. Some of the protocols are as follows.
* All priests and deacons must wear masks during the celebration of mass at all times.
* Everyone that delivers Holy Communion must wear a mask and sanitize their hands prior to distribution.
* Choir members must be masked
* Shaking hands at the Sign of Peace remains suspended
* Those attending Mass are urgently encouraged to wear masks regardless of vaccination status.
These protocols are based on the dramatic surge in community spread of the Omicron Variant of the Covid-19 virus and will be re-evaluated on an ongoing basis as more information from the CDC and local health care officials becomes available.