CT Coronavirus: Archdiocese Closes Schools, Cancels Masses

HARTFORD, CT — Priests in churches across Hartford, Litchfield, and New Haven counties will celebrate a daily mass alone, with no congregation, the Archdiocese of Hartford said, noting those priests will be praying for "all affected by the COVID-19 pandemic."

They will be alone because beginning Tuesday, March 17 as the Archdiocese of Hartford has cancelled all weekend and weekday masses.

The Archdiocese posted to Facebook that it is complying with the instruction of the Centers for Disease Control and the order issued by Gov. Ned Lamont Monday.

The CDC warned against being in gatherings of 50 people or more and Lamont, with the governors of New York and New Jersey, shut down bars, restaurants, movie theaters, gyms and casinos. Takeout will continue at local eateries. On Sunday Lamont ordered closed all Connecticut public schools beginning Tuesday, March 17 and continuing until March 31 though that date may be extended.

The Archdiocese of Hartford said all of its "Archdiocesan high schools and parochial schools will also be closed through March 31st." (To stay on top of real-time coronavirus updates in your town and Connecticut sign up for Patch’s free newsletter here. )

And it added that its "parishes will be encouraged to make provision for their churches to be open at some time so that individuals can still come and pray. Further direction and updates from the Archdiocese will be provided in a timely manner regarding Holy Week and all celebrations beyond that date."

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