As we return to the public celebration of Mass, listen to these words from Fr. Donald Oleksiak – Diocesan Administrator of the Diocese of Cleveland:
As of Pentecost 2020, the churches of the Diocese of Cleveland have reopened. St. Patrick Parish is now following it’s typical weekday and weekend Mass schedule (CLICK HERE FOR THE SCHEDULE). PLEASE BE AWARE that our seating capacity has been greatly reduced; less than half the available number of pews may be used – and social distancing guidelines must be followed. Masks are required in order to participate at Mass in person. (Some who’ve found it difficult to wear a mask have chosen to wear a clear face-shield instead … which is an acceptable option.)
Because the Bishops of Ohio have extended the dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass for the foreseeable future, those not wishing to wear a mask (or face shield) should continue to participate at Mass via the various social-media options presently available (eg: dioceseofcleveland.org, various streamed Masses on YouTube and facebook, etc).
The Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation (aka Confession) will only be available by appointment – and will be celebrated outdoors with both parties wearing a mask. At present it is unwise to use the confessional for the sacrament because it is a confined space with minimal ventilation. To schedule the sacrament, contact Fr. Trask at 440.987.9873.
For those who are at higher-risk for contracting COVID-19, as well as for anyone who might be apprehensive about gathering together in the midst of a pandemic, the dispensation of the obligation to attend Sunday Mass remains in effect. Thus, anyone who is uncomfortable returning to weekend Mass may stay at home and watch Mass on TV/YouTube/etc.
At-home options for keeping Holy the Lord’s Day include:
– Channel 43 (WOIO) at 8AM on Sunday mornings
– The Diocese of Cleveland livestreams a mass daily at 9:30am on the diocesan website, and the weekend TV Mass will be available on the diocesan website starting at 4 p.m. on Saturday. It can also be seen on Fox 8 WJW at 6 a.m. on Sunday.
– Daily Mass with Bp. Robert Barron at https://www.wordonfire.org/daily-mass/
– Mass on EWTN daily at 8AM and Noon at www.ewtn.com/tv/watch-live
– Mass on-demand at CatholicTV.com