Trenton Diocese Cancels Services Due To Coronavirus

LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ — All public masses in the Diocese of Trenton have been canceled until April 3 in accordance with the latest guidelines from state and federal officials about social distancing to prevent the spread of new coronavirus.

Officials in the diocese will reconsider the end date as the coronavirus pandemic evolves, Bishop David M. O'Connell announced. Churches should remain open for prayer, private devotion and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, O’Connell said. Special attention should be paid to the cleanliness of the churches.

Pastors are asked to consider Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament during the day. Praying in large groups, however, should be avoided, as the diocese is urging parishioners to observe social distancing practices of 3 to 6 feet.

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Baptisms, funerals and weddings may continue based on the judgement of pastors, with the caution that crowds should not exceed 50 persons as mandated by the State of New Jersey. All scheduled Confirmations in the Diocese will be temporarily postponed until after Easter and will be re-scheduled after that time.

The Sacrament of Penance should remain available according to need, but public Penance Services are not to be conducted, O’Connell said.

The diocese previously closed all schools, religious education programs and the Chancery until March 27. Read more here: Trenton Diocese Closes Schools Amid Coronavirus Concerns

“The Catholic faithful of the Diocese — priests, religious and lay faithful — are advised to keep informed and updated regarding the progress of the coronavirus pandemic during this national and state emergency,” O’Connell said. To read the full message, visit ourdiocesetoday.org.