April 8: Bishop Barber Shares COVID-19 Restriction Updates for Contra Costa & Alameda Counties

A message from Bishop Michael C. Barber, SJ: Alameda County (April 1, 2021) Orange Tier COVID-19 Restriction Updates now in effect in Contra Costa County, as of April 7, 2021.

Parishes in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties may now admit up to 50% of the church building’s official seating capacity; however, that must take into account the ability to maintain the existing six feet distancing rule. (The bishops of California are negotiating with the State to see if this can be adjusted to three feet, as for schools). Individuals must still follow current health orders and mandates. The 50% capacity includes clergy, altar servers, musicians, sound/video tech persons — anyone in the building. Alameda and Contra Costa Counties have further updated their guidelines regarding singing, chanting, and playing wind instruments in houses of worship. To reflect updated rules, we are issuing further guidelines to inform and clarify. Both Counties orange tier restrictions regarding music and singing are as follows:

Inside - Only cantors, small ensemble choirs, and other appointed ministers for Mass or events can sing, while maintaining physical distance from both each other and the congregation.

Outside - Cantors, small ensemble choirs, ministers - as well as congregants - can sing, but only with congregants wearing masks and maintaining a strictly enforced six feet of separation. As our community continues to be vaccinated, and cases drop, we look forward to seeing the rules revised and hearing song return to the pews once again. For now, we urge all parishes to observe this safety protocol, and help keep us safe. Things are looking up in the Bay Area, but, as we’ve seen before, progress can vanish quickly, not only from potentially more contagious vaccine-resistant variants, but also by letting down our guard vis-à-vis well-established safety protocols. I am heartened by the hunger of our people to return to the celebration of the Eucharist, as witnessed on Ash Wednesday, during Holy Week and most recently on Easter Sunday. Let us welcome them with open arms, while also ensuring their safety.

With the assurance of my continued prayers and blessing, I am Yours sincerely in Christ, The Most Reverend Michael C. Barber, S.J. Bishop of Oakland