ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- The Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg announced plans to bring people back in for public worship.
On Tuesday, the diocese said gatherings for daily Masses -- Monday through Friday mornings -- will be allowed to return on May 11.
"My prayer is that whether you join us in person for Mass or stay at home for health reasons, we will all be joyfully united and present to the Lord in prayer, worship and service," said Bishop Gregory Parkes in a video announcement.
The diocese said it will allow churches and social halls to fill up to 25 percent of its usual capacity. Bishop Parkes encourages "the use of face masks, refrain from passing around collection baskets, prohibit physical contact, such as exchanging the sign of peace and holding hands during the Our Father, and eliminate the use of hymnals."
So far, the diocese has not yet figured out a date for bringing back Sunday Masses.
Those who are unable to attend Mass during the weekdays and Saturday morning are encouraged to watch it online, Bishop Parkes said.
You can click here for full details on the diocese's plan to reopen Masses.
