URGENT Coronavirus Update from the Bishop

The following notice is being sent to all parishes, schools, diocesan facilities and media outlets:
 
Effective immediately, and until further notice, Bishop Joseph C. Bambera, in union with the Bishops of Pennsylvania, has dispensed the faithful of the Diocese of Scranton from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass. Despite the suspension of the obligation to attend Sunday Mass, all regularly scheduled Masses will remain open to the public for those who wish to attend.
 
Also, during a news conference Thursday afternoon (3/12/20), Governor Wolf encouraged religious leaders statewide to exercise discretion in order to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus and encouraged the suspension of large gatherings and events of 250 individuals or more. In the Diocese of Scranton, it is now strongly recommended that all non-essential parish and Diocesan events be temporarily cancelled or postponed.
 

Therefore in addition to the above, Faith Formation Classes are postponed until further notice. Your careful adherence to these important matters is appreciated. Let us continue to pray for each other.

For a full update from the Diocese of Scranton, please visit their site. 
 
Faithfully yours in Christ,

†Joseph C. Bambera
Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L.
Bishop of Scranton
 
† Reverend Richard W Beck, Pastor
Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace and
St Veronica.