Venice Diocese Reinstates In-Person Mass For Catholic Faithful

VENICE, FL — Daily masses in the Sarasota and Bradenton areas resumed this week for Catholics with the first Sunday services planned for this weekend.

"After much prayer and discernment, and having consulted with the priests on the Presbyteral Council, it has been determined that public celebration of the mass in the Diocese of Venice can resume," wrote Bishop Frank J. Dewane in a letter to parishioners.

The obligation to attend mass in person has been waived for parishioners until June 28.

"The faithful ought not to worry about remaining home if they are concerned for their well being or that of other parishioners," the bishop wrote. "Of course, those who are sick or have symptoms associated with COVID-19 are to stay home."

Other non-liturgical activities at parishes will remain suspended for the time being. Livestreams will continue until the dispensation is lifted.

"Out of concern for the safety of all involved, our pastors have been asked to follow established directives and guideline," the bishop said. "These limit the size of the congregation ... maintain social distancing guidance, and ask the faithful's cooperation to wear facemasks and bring with them hand sanitizer for their use."

Each church is operating at up to 50 percent capacity with 6-foot social distancing. The reopening marks the end of a 59-day suspension of public masses throughout the diocese.

Dewane also asked parishioners to take communion in their hands.

"These are extraordinary times and I ask for your patience and good will as parishes reopen for public celebrations," he said. "Further schedules may need to be adjusted and some priests or liturgical ministers may not be able to participate publicly because of age or health conditions."