As you know, Governor Baker has announced more details of the “four-phase approach” to re-opening in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, including the welcome news that houses of worship are included in Phase 1 of the plan. The Archdiocese remains committed to working with public officials on the timing and conditions of re-opening churches for Masses, and is closely monitoring the guidance and directives from the state as it develops its own plan to resume public Masses and public gatherings when it is safe to do so.
In a message to parishes last week, Bishop Uglietto stated: “It is important to note that, while there is great anticipation about being able to re-open our Churches, we are not at that point yet and it will likely be several more weeks before we can begin to implement our own phased-in plans to resume public Masses. In other words, the announcement…by the Governor does not mean an immediate resumption of operations and activities for our parishes, schools and ministries.”
We are all eagerly awaiting the time when we can begin to gather again for Mass at our Churches. As much as we all want a clear roadmap for the coming weeks and months, the complexity of this process will require continued patience and understanding. The health and safety of our parishioners, our clergy and staff, and the wider community is, as always, of the utmost importance. We will continue to keep you updated as we receive new guidance and directives from the Archdiocese in the coming weeks.