OHIO — With COVID-19 restrictions easing throughout the state, the Bishops of Ohio announced on Thursday that Catholics will be obligated to return to Mass the weekend of June 5 and 6.
From the onset of the pandemic, bishops in Ohio excused parishioners from mass, even though places of worship were allowed to operate during the beginning of the pandemic.
On Wednesday, Gov. Mike DeWine announced that nearly all COVID-19 regulations in the state would come to an end June 2. The following day, the CDC announced that it’s safe for those who have been fully vaccinated to not wear a mask.
“As we move beyond the worst of the coronavirus pandemic and access to the COVID-19 vaccine has become more widespread, the time has arrived for the good of all the faithful when the general dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation is no longer necessary,” said a joint statement by the Bishops of Ohio.
“We are profoundly grateful to our pastors and all of the faithful for their flexibility, fidelity and great generosity in support of the mission of the Church throughout this unprecedented time. As we prepare for the reinstatement of the obligation to attend Mass, we are excited once again to gather together in person without restrictions in our parish churches,” the bishops added.
