Catholic Church Cancels All Masses In Oakland Diocese

OAKLAND, CA — All public masses are being suspended in response to new restrictions enacted to stem the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, the Diocese of Oakland announced Monday.

Bishop Michael Barber is advising priests in the diocese on the celebration of sacraments, including baptisms, weddings and funerals.

All other events at parishes and schools will be postponed, rescheduled or canceled until further notice, the diocese said, but churches will remain open "to provide a place of prayer and solace for people," the diocese said in an announcement.

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Proper hygiene and social distancing will be emphasized in accordance with federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines.

Diocese workers are being told to remain at home and will be compensated as normal, officials said.

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