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May 8, 2020Confronted with the challenges of the coronavirus, the bishops of Florida have been meeting weekly via video conference to discuss how to continue the mission of the Church while also protecting the health and well-being of the faithful and the broader community. As of March 20, each of Florida's bishops had made the difficult decision to suspend publicly-attended Masses and parish gatherings.
On April 29, Gov. DeSantis announced his "Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. Plan for Florida's Recovery," a phased approach to reopening the state. Among the first restrictions to be lifted, certain businesses, such as restaurants and retail stores, are allowed to operate at 25% capacity. Individuals with compromised health and those 65 and older are urged to remain at home and the continued use of face masks in public is recommended. Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties, which have been hit the hardest by the epidemic, are currently excluded from this initial phase of the governor's plan.
In light of this gradual reopening of the state, each diocesan bishop, after prayer and consultation with clergy and staff, will determine when best to resume Masses with congregations in attendance.
In order to protect parish communities from the spread of the coronavirus, dioceses that are resuming Masses have established special procedures to comply with social-distancing and health and safety protocols. Additionally, the dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass will remain until further notice. Opportunities for prayer and the celebration of Mass virtually via live stream or video will continue to be offered.
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