Gov. Tim Walz announced June 5 that faith communities may hold worship services in indoor settings at 50% capacity with a 250-person limit, whichever is less, starting June 10. For outdoor settings, gatherings must not exceed 250 people.
Walz also loosened restrictions on businesses such as restaurants, movie theaters and fitness centers as part of phase 3 of his “Stay Safe MN” plan.
Currently, Masses and other religious services are limited to 25% of church capacity, with an upper limit of 250 people. Bishop Donald Kettler said the Diocese of St. Cloud will update its liturgical protocols to reflect the change.
In a video message June 5 to the people of the diocese, Bishop Kettler reminded those choosing to attend Mass to follow the protocols and guidelines parishes have established. He also encouraged members of the assembly to wear face coverings, except when receiving Holy Communion. “Masks are an important way of preventing those who may have the virus, and not know it, from spreading it to others,” he said.
All Catholics in the diocese remain dispensed from the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and holy days until further notice.
Photo credit: CNS photo/Tyler Orsburn