All Catholic Churches in Maine to Allow up to 50 percent of Capacity Beginning Friday March 26th
Great news for those who haven't been able to go in-person to church in Maine because of the limited capacity! The Roman Catholic Diocese of Maine, covering the entire State of Maine, announced today, Friday March 5th that they will be allowing up to 50 percent capacity beginning Friday March 26th for all daily and weekend Masses!
Holy Week begins on Sunday, March 28th with Palm Sunday, and includes Holy Thursday, Good Friday, the Easter Vigil and Easter Masses on Sunday, April 4th where Roman Catholics celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The protocols, including mandatory masks and social distancing, will remain in place and the dispensation. The dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass will continue, as will the many live-streamed Masses being offered at churches around Maine
“The events commemorated in Holy Week are the focus of our reflection and penance during Lent. The climax of the mission of Jesus is unfolded. The love of God he reveals to us becomes very real for us in his suffering, death, and resurrection,” said Bishop Robert Deeley. “I know that expanding our capacity for in-person worship at the start of Holy Week will bring great joy to many parishioners who have been unable to attend Mass as they wish due to attendance restrictions. Now, they can participate in the most solemn week of the year as we, together, remember the events which are at the heart of our Christian faith.”