By Roger DuPuis rdupuis@timesleader.com
In Rome on Wednesday, Pope Francis greeted the faithful in St. Peter’s Square and walked with fellow priests in a procession without face masks, even as some of the faithful chose to do so as the coronavirus spreads.
It raises the question: Should churchgoers attend services as usual? In the case of Catholics and others whose faith involves taking communion wine, is it safe to do so?
In short: Use common sense.
Asked about how the Diocese of Scranton is reacting, spokesman Eric Deabill on Wednesday said the advice right now is the same as when there is widespread flu activity.
The faithful “are urged to observe standard precautions, including practicing good hygiene, washing hands frequently and covering your mouth when sneezing or coughing,” Deabill said.
“Parishioners are also reminded that if they are sick, especially with flu-like symptoms, they should stay home for their own well-being and that of others,” he added.
And yes, that is OK with the Church.
“If parishioners are sick or suspect they are sick with a contagious illness, they are not bound by the Sunday Mass obligation,” Deabill said. “The faithful should also be reminded that they should not receive from the chalice if they are feeling ill.”
As so many organizations are doing, the Diocese is monitoring all information and updates being provided by federal, state and local government officials, Deabill added.
“Even though no one in Pennsylvania has tested positive for COVID-19, the Diocese of Scranton recognizes the situation can change quickly,” he said.