Coronavirus 6.26.2020
Statement from Bishop Edward J. Burns Concerning Reopening of Sunday Masses
"In heeding the messages of civic officials and medical personnel to slow down the process of re-opening, and after consultation with the diocesan priest council, I have decided to ask the individual pastors to determine for their parishes whether or not they should resume Sunday Masses at this time. "
The decision to resume Sunday masses was made weeks ago well before the spike and warnings that have come as a result of the coronavirus statistics that we are seeing at this time. We continue to place the safety and well-being of our parishioners as a priority.
In heeding the messages of civic officials and medical personnel to slow down the process of re-opening, and after consultation with the diocesan priest council, I have decided to ask the individual pastors to determine for their parishes whether or not they should resume Sunday Masses at this time. We recognize that the nine counties of the Diocese of Dallas face different realities with regard to this coronavirus, and the pastors are in a better position to individually decide what is best for their parishioners and for their parish communities.
The celebrations of Sunday Mass are bound by all the requirements laid out in the Phase Three Decree released on June 17, 2020, and any obligation to attend Sunday Mass continues to be suspended at this time. While it is our hope that we can all be together to celebrate the Holy Eucharist, we continue to pray for all of our families during these difficult days.
Thank you so much for your understanding and please continue to join us for our televised and online Masses. Your patience is greatly appreciated. Stay well, be healthy, and remain faithful.
With prayers,
Bishop Edward J. Burns