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Archdiocese: Facemasks in Church Strongly Recommended

This just in from the Archdiocese of Chicago…

We continue to monitor and follow the guidance of public health authorities in our effort to keep our staff, workplaces and communities safe from COVID-19 infection. While the course of the pandemic has been unpredictable, cases are again on the rise in the archdiocese. Yesterday, suburban Cook County reached the threshold for “Substantial Transmission” of the virus and today, the Cook County Department of Public Health, consistent with IDPH and the CDC has published guidelines requiring masking on public transport and in health care settings and strongly recommending masking for all persons, vaccinated or unvaccinated in indoor public spaces. Their action is prompted by the high number of cases attributed to the highly transmissible Delta variant.

The Archdiocese will follow this guidance. Beginning now masks are strongly recommended for all persons entering Archdiocesan facilities in Cook County, excluding the City of Chicago regardless of their vaccination status. This applies to parish offices, schools, churches and other public spaces. More specific guidance on churches will be forthcoming in a communication to priests. 

As Catholics who cherish every human life, we urge anyone who has not been vaccinated to please do so for the safety of all. Approved vaccines are free and easily obtained. As Pope Francis has said, “I believe that morally everyone must take the vaccine. It is the moral choice because it is about your life but also the lives of others.” As disciples of Jesus, who preached and lived kindness for our brothers and sisters, we can do no less.

Peace,
COVID-19 Task Force