Archdiocese of Chicago Suspends Masses, Closes Catholic Schools

CHICAGO, IL — The Archdiocese of Chicago will suspend the public celebration of Mass and will close Archdiocesan schools, its pastoral center and other related agencies until further notice over concerns about the spread of the new coronavirus. The measures are in keeping current guidelines from local public health departments, which recommend the cancellation of public gatherings involving 250 or more people.

Cardinal Blase J. Cupich said the suspension of all liturgical services will take effect Saturday evening. The archbishop also ordered the closing of all schools operated by the archdiocese.

"This was not a decision I made lightly," Cupich said in a written statement. "The Eucharist is the source and summit of our life as Catholics. And our schools and agencies provide essential services to many thousands across Cook and Lake counties. But, in consultation with leaders from across the archdiocese, for the sake of the safety of our students, parishioners and all the women and men who serve the people of the archdiocese, it is clear that we must take the better part of caution in order to slow the spread of this pandemic."

Weddings and funerals scheduled for Saturday may proceed as long as they follow the guidelines issued by Gov. J.B. Pritzker and limit participation to no more than 250 people.

Archdiocesan churches will remain open for private prayer at a time best determined by each parish. The archdiocese is asking pastors to coordinate limited staff presence in parishes and to answer calls and perform routine maintenance with a heightened focus on disinfecting all areas of common use.

Parishes with the capability of broadcasting their own Masses — such as via television, Facebook Live or online streaming — are encouraged to do so. Additional guidelines will be forthcoming from the Office of the Vicar General on the administration and celebration of other sacraments, officials said.

"We encourage priests to celebrate Mass privately for the good of the people of God, the church and the intentions of the day," Cupich said.

Beginning Monday, all Catholic schools operated by the Archdiocese of Chicago will close until further notice. Catholic schools not operated by the archdiocese, such as those sponsored by religious orders, are to make decisions individually.

During the closure period, Catholic school students will be asked to complete academic work through electronic learning — “e-learning” — or alternative methods.

"Knowing that many families and students of our Catholic schools depend on the daily services we provide, the Office of Catholic Schools and archdiocesan leadership are working to coordinate extended support to those families and students most in need during this time. More information will be shared in the coming days," the archbishop said.

The Pastoral Center and school staff are expected to work from home beginning Monday. Parishes will also receive information on staffing, to be determined by the pastor. All employees will continue to be paid during this period. The archdiocese is also prohibiting all work-related travel.

"In this time of legitimate concern for the safety of ourselves, our loved ones and those at the margins of society, we must hold fast to the knowledge that the impulses that come from God bring courage, consolation, generosity and solidarity," Cupich said. "Instead of allowing this moment to trap us in fear, we must find unity in advancing all that is good in our common humanity. This means staying spiritually and emotionally close to one another, in our families, our friendships and our communities. It means helping where possible and safe. It means checking on the vulnerable. It means being responsible about hygiene. This is a time to be gentle with one another. For Christians, it is a time to reflect on how Jesus made those struggling with illness a priority. It is also a time to be surprised by the blessings that come from being part of the same family — the human family."