In the light of spiking numbers of new COVID cases and the likely increase in those numbers in the upcoming holiday season, Cardinal Seán O’Malley has mandated the wearing of masks when attending public Masses, including weddings and funerals, throughout the Archdiocese of Boston, beginning Saturday, December 18.
In a statement released on Thursday, December 9, Cardinal Seán O’Malley stated:
“During the past two years the people we serve have greatly benefited from our priests, laity and parishioners holding safety as a priority. With recognition of recent increases of COVID we believe this policy will provide an important and enhanced level of safety during the upcoming Christmas season Masses. We continue to encourage all who are eligible to get vaccinated. With care and concern for our parishioners and the wider community we hold it important to make extra efforts to limit the exposure and transmission of this deadly virus.”
Masks are required regardless of vaccination status. In addition, areas of each church have been designated for social distancing. In these areas:
- Only green pews are available.
- Please sit at least 6 feet apart from anyone not in your household.
Please refer to the posted signs for the locations of these areas.
Please note: Children under the age of five are not required to wear masks, and children under the age of two should not wear masks.
Due to the expected crowds, we cannot guarantee that social distancing areas can be maintained at Masses on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.