Community Corner
Catholic Mass Canceled Until Further Notice: Baltimore Archbishop
The Archdiocese of Baltimore issued guidance that public Mass was canceled until further notice to stop the spread of the new coronavirus.
BALTIMORE, MD — Archbishop William Lori has canceled public Masses until further notice. The Archdiocese of Baltimore gave notice of the cancellation Saturday night.
"I take this step with great sadness, but also with wholehearted determination that we continue to provide for the spiritual well-being of the faithful," Lori said in a statement. He advised staying connected to one's parish through broadcasts and livestreams.
"My highest priority is the safety and welfare of the people of God of this Archdiocese," Lori said.
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The Archdiocese of Baltimore issued a statement saying the decision to cancel Masses was made after being briefed by state officials "late today on the current impact of the COVID-19 virus."
Officials said the first Baltimore resident tested positive Saturday for the novel coronavirus.
Find out what's happening in Baltimorefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Canceling mass was designed to minimize the community spread of the illness, officials said on the Baltimore archdiocese coronavirus page.
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