With special concern for the elderly and infirmed in the Diocese of Providence, Bishop Tobin has issued the following statement:
“In light of the coronavirus crisis (COVID-19) and because the virus is very dangerous for the elderly and infirm, I strongly urge and request Catholics 60 years of age or older to not attend Mass this week, and to refrain from receiving Holy Communion this week. Your health comes first.”
The directives issued by the Diocese on Thursday remain in effect; the faithful are dispensed from Sunday obligation and pastors are permitted to change parish Mass schedules to respond to local conditions.
The Diocese is closely monitoring the situation, is committed to fully cooperating with public officials and will make changes as necessary. We will provide ongoing information on our website
www.dioceseofprovidence.org.