To: Priests & Lay Faithful of the Diocese of Fargo
RE: Precautions at Liturgies due to Coronavirus
Due to the continuance of the flu season and because of concerns regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19), the Diocese of Fargo Liturgy Office, in consultation with Bishop Folda, offers the following guidelines regarding the celebration of Mass. The principles underlying these guidelines may also be applied to other liturgical celebrations.
Please observe common sense practices for avoiding the spread of sickness:
All of the faithful should use proper hygiene and follow other safeguards recommended by the Center for Disease Control.
Parishes should also be diligent in cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.
Members of the faithful should not come to Mass if they are ill. Not only are they legitimately excused from Mass when they are ill, staying home so to avoid the spread of sickness is actually an act of charity.
Those at a higher risk of illness, namely, older adults and those who suffer from serious chronic medical conditions, may legitimately absent themselves from the celebration of Mass even if they are not ill.
We pray for:
For those who are suffering in the current outbreak of sickness that they might be healed; let us pray to the Lord.
For scientists, health professionals, public officials, and all who are serving the common good in this difficult and uncertain time, that they will be filled with wisdom and understanding; let us pray to the Lord.
If you are unable to attend Mass due to sickness or grave risk to your personal health, it is beneficial to make a spiritual communion. Also, Mass on is televised on Sundays on the following stations:
10:30 a.m. on
WDAY ch.6 – Fargo & daily on
EWTN on cable or dish
The situation will continue to be monitored, and further precautions may be taken if deemed necessary.