Updated Mask Guidance-Archdiocese of Chicago

Updated Mask Guidance-Archdiocese of Chicago                                                                          08/03/2021

The good news that our country was gaining some control over the pandemic, unfortunately has stalled as we learn of setbacks in our progress. Increased infections and mutations of the virus have led to more hospitalizations in our area. As a result, the civil authorities have issued updated guidance on masking and other measures.

 Our priority has always been the safety of all God’s People and we will therefore align our guidance for all archdiocese facilities and gatherings with the current thinking of the CDC and public health authorities in Illinois, Cook and Lake Counties and City of Chicago. All recommend, given the rapid spread of Delta variant, masking for all indoor gatherings to protect everyone until the number of cases is again brought under control.

 Our guidance is as follows:

• Masks are now strongly recommended throughout all Archdiocese of Chicago facilities including churches, regardless of vaccination status. However, masks are not mandated but we invite you to comply as a duty in Charity.
• We ask that ALL pastors, priests, deacons and lay ministers wear masks for all liturgical services again regardless of their vaccination status.
• Finally, and most importantly, it is encouraged that all get vaccinated so we can finally gain ground on this virus.
• Civil and nonprofit authorities and commercial outlets have made the vaccine against COVID-19 free and widely available. If you have questions on where vaccinations are available, please check on the website of your local department of public health.

We will continue to monitor the situation and work with local authorities on changes that may be necessary. We appreciate and value your continued patience and flexibility as we, a Church committed to the sanctity and dignity of human life, again take steps to protect our sisters and brothers. Let us both join our prayers with those of Pope Francis that people around the world are soon free of the burden of the pandemic and do all we can to achieve that goal.