Archbishop Jose H. Gomez has announced that the dispensation to attend Sunday Mass and Holy Days of Obligation due to the pandemic is going to be lifted in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, except for those who are ill, have health conditions, or significant concerns about becoming ill.
In a letter, he stated that as “we continue to make significant progress in our fight against the pandemic in the three counties of the Archdiocese… we can look forward to better days in which we can actively live our faith as the Body of Christ in our parish communities.”
Gomez’s Sunday Mass
Gomez urged the followers, particularly those in perfect health, to join in-person Sunday Mass next weekend.
“… On June 19 and 20, I encourage the Catholic faithful of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles to return to in-person Sunday Mass and the celebration of the Sacraments, especially for those who are in good health,” the letter stated.
The archbishop also issued new “Guidelines on Liturgical Celebrations and Religious Services,” which were distributed to all pastors to support in the restoration process.
Masks Not Necessary For Vaccinated Individuals
As per the guidelines, “masks will not be required indoors or outdoors for those fully vaccinated, but will be always required of employees and volunteers.”
It asked people who are not vaccinated yet to “always wear masks indoors and outdoors when social distancing is not possible.”
The new measures will take effect on June 15 and will supersede all prior Archdiocese liturgical guidelines.