3 Colorado Dioceses Announce Public Masses Are Canceled

The bishops of the three dioceses of Colorado have announced that all public Masses have been canceled "effective immediately." The announcement comes after Gov. Jared Polis ordered the cancellation of events with more than 250 people amid the spread of the new coronavirus.

The Archdiocese of Denver and the dioceses of Colorado Springs and Pueblo have suspended all public Masses, including daily Masses, until further notice. Parishes offices will remain open.

"We are recommending parishes and schools to also postpone/cancel large events, nonessential events and meetings, and nonessential school events and activities," a public notice said earlier this week.

"Individual schools will be communicating directly to parents and families the steps they are taking, and how they will handle the time outside of the classroom."

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Polis ordered the cancellation of all public gatherings in Colorado with more than 250 people, unless organizers can guarantee that each attendee has at least 6 feet of separation from others.

Polis acknowledged how "devastating" the order is but said it is necessary to combat the spread of the virus and prevent deaths.

"There are likely hundreds, if not thousands, of cases in Colorado that have not been tested," Polis said. "There is a very low incidence among the young, but people in their 70s and 80s are very vulnerable."

Polis declared a state of emergency Tuesday and announced the state's plan to combat the virus.

Testing criteria for the new coronavirus has been expanded and updated in Colorado. Public health officials are continuing to adjust policies to the specific needs of the state.

The Colorado Department of Public Health has issued the following tips to protect against the new coronavirus:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Stay home if you are sick, and keep your children at home when if are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

Other information on COVID-19:

• Coronavirus Testing Criteria Updated, Expanded In Colorado
• Colorado Colleges Hold Classes Remotely Amid Coronavirus Outbreak
• Americans Over 60 Should Hunker Down To Avoid Coronavirus: CDC
• Coronavirus And The Prospect Of Working From Home: Helpful Tips
• Coronavirus: Tips To Prepare Your Home