Diocese of Scranton Guidelines for Public Masses During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Updated-Guidelines for Mass Beginning June-28-2021

The Diocese of Scranton joyfully welcomes the faithful of the Diocese of Scranton to return to Masses at all of its parishes. Despite the challenges of the last year, we invite those who have not yet returned to Mass to rejoin us in person to celebrate the Holy Eucharist, the source and summit of the Christian life.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health ended its mask mandate as of Monday, June 28, 2021. People who are not vaccinated from COVID-19, or are not fully vaccinated, are still strongly encouraged to wear masks indoors and outdoors when around others but are no longer required to do so. This means that in the parishes and institutions of the Diocese of Scranton, there is no requirement for face coverings or masks.

Any individual is welcome to continue wearing masks at Mass if desired for personal protection and/or comfort. People are asked to be respectful of a person’s choice to wear a face covering or mask in churches throughout the Diocese of Scranton.

While ongoing progress is being made to address the spread of COVID-19 with vaccinations, the obligation to attend Sunday Mass and Masses on Holy Days remains suspended at this time. Every parish is encouraged to continue welcoming the faithful back to Church in earnest