Bishop Mark Brennan of the Wheeling-Charleston Catholic Diocese announced on Friday that he is suspending for the time being the public celebration of Mass, both for Sunday obligation and daily Masses, beginning with this weekend’s Saturday afternoon Masses.
He also announced that Catholic schools will be closed following Gov. Jim Justice’s announcement of the closure of all public schools.
Brennan explained that his decision comes because he believes it wise to listen to public health officials regarding health and safety during the coronavirus pandemic.
Federal and state officials have talked about preventing disease spread by maintaining social distancing: avoiding large crowds and public gatherings and maintaining a distance of 6 feet while conversing.
Regarding the Mass, Brennan said, “Faithful Catholic people love the Mass, so it is a hardship not to be able to celebrate it. I encourage you to remain steadfast in faith during this time, by praying the Liturgy of the Hours in your homes, praying the Rosary, and by reflecting on the readings of the day. All of these resources are available online.”
He reminded priests that the Roman Missal makes provision for a “Mass without a Congregation” and he asked them to offer that Mass privately for their people. “We will also be working to provide the daily Mass via our live stream on our website. Mass will continue to air on television in the Wheeling and Clarksburg areas as well.”
Regarding the schools, Brennan said, “Because we rely on the same public health information that the Governor is relying on, our Catholic schools and child-care facilities associated with them will also be closed until further notice.”
In addition, all non-essential meetings, gatherings and parish events are to be postponed or cancelled beginning this Saturday, he said.
“We can look on this development as a penance we do together during this Lenten season and offer our disappointment and suffering up to God. May the Lord give us the joy of celebrating Easter together in good health!”
Brennan urged everyone to pray for the sick and for those who care for them, in particular doctors, nurses and other medical support staff who must deal up close with the sick every day.
“Let us pray for a quick end to the Corona Virus outbreak in our country and around the world,” he said. “May Jesus, the Divine Physician, send his healing grace upon the people he has redeemed. Let us hold one another close in prayer and Christian love. God bless you and your loved ones!”
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