Diocese of Pittsburgh to lock all buildings

By JEFF STITT

jstitt@yourmvi.com

The Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh has made even more modifications to its COVID-19 response policies.

Bishop David Zubik announced this weekend that, effective immediately,  all church buildings in the diocese are to be locked until further notice, saying the decision was made because the virus can live on surfaces for an extended period of time.

Zubik also announced that all opportunities for the sacrament of reconciliation in churches or church parking lots are immediately suspended at all parishes in the diocese. The bishop said all funeral Masses are immediately canceled until further notice. 

Zubik said direct burials of the deceased should be celebrated with memorial Masses to occur at a later time.

He said all baptism ceremonies in the diocese are suspended until further notice, but added that in cases of emergency (in danger of death), people should contact their priest for guidance.

 All wedding ceremonies in the diocese are suspended until further notice. Parishes will be working directly with all couples who have scheduled weddings, Zubik said.

The sacrament of anointing of the sick may occur only in the case of immediate danger of death. 

Livestream Masses and worship services from the diocese and other parishes will continue. 

“Several weeks ago, when I had to suspend the celebration of public Masses, I said it was the most difficult decision I have had to make as a bishop,” Zubik said. “Today’s decisions are equally excruciating. Our pastoral responsibility requires us to provide for the needs of those entrusted to our care.  

“The most critical care we can offer to our people at this moment is to do all that we can to keep them connected with God and each other and to keep them safe in that care.”

Zubik announced Sunday that Father Adam Potter, Parochial Vicar of the Greenfield, Hazelwood, Oakland grouping, as well as chaplain for Oakland Catholic High School tested positive for COVID-19. 

Father Thomas Gramc, Parochial Vicar of the Dormont, Mount Lebanon, Scott Township grouping, as well as chaplain for Seton La Salle High School also began isolation after experiencing symptoms.

Neither priest has had any contact with students or faculty of the high schools, since their closure March 13.