Masses canceled until further notice because of coronavirus, Diocese of Stockton says
Starting Wednesday, all public daily and Sunday Masses within the Diocese of Stockton are canceled until further notice because of the novel coronavirus pandemic, according to a news release Tuesday.
“All Catholics in the Diocese of Stockton have been dispensed from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass until further notice,” said the diocese, noting that it’s following the guidance of state and national public health officials.
Dyan Hollenhorst, chancellor of the diocese, said that guidance of an eight-week suspension includes services on Easter, which is April 12. Should the pandemic miraculously vanquish before then, activities would be able to resume, she said.
The news release said parishes are encouraged to leave their churches open on Sundays and throughout the week for parishioners and others who wish to pray and seek spiritual consolation.
Since Friday, all parish and diocesan schools and religious education programs have been suspended. Bishop Myron Cotta made the decision after San Joaquin County health officials reported five more people had tested positive for COVID-19.
Teachers are facilitating distance-learning at home, the diocese’s news release says.
