October 1 - COVID-19 Update: "Indoor Public worship" for Contra Costa County - Diocese of Oakland CA

Contra Costa County has approved resuming “indoor public worship” effective immediately. For those parishes in Contra Costa County, pastors may resume indoor Masses at their discretion. With a few exceptions, the June 12 Diocesan Covid-19 Liturgical Protocol is still in effect, including limiting indoor attendance to 25%, not exceeding 100 people.

Parishes are encouraged to continue outdoor Masses as long as possible, since this allows more people to participate in person. Regardless of where Masses are held, churches are always open during the day for private prayer.

We are able to receive Holy Communion now during Mass, in the usual place in the liturgy. It is no longer necessary to wait until after Mass is finished to receive.

Church law states that reception of Holy Communion by the tongue is permissible. We continue to encourage people to receive Holy Communion in the hand, in an abundance of caution for health reasons.

Parishes continue to offer sacramental preparation and other sacraments and funerals, in accord with the guidance of public health officials. However, no indoor classes, after-Mass events such as coffee hours, or other programs are currently being held.

It is very important for us to keep vigilant and practice all the safety precautions to which we’ve become accustomed.