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News about coronavirus in Florida and around the world is constantly emerging. It's hard to stay on top of it all but Health News Florida can help. Our responsibility is to keep you informed, and to help discern what’s important for your family as you make what could be life-saving decisions.

Diocese Of St. Petersburg Suspends Masses Over Coronavirus Concerns

In a video posted Wednesday, Bishop Gregory Parkes announced the suspension of all public Mass celebrations for the Roman Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg
Diocese of St. Petersburg
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The Florida Channel
Leon County Judge John Cooper on June 30, 2022, in a screen grab from The Florida Channel.

Calling it the hardest decision he's had to make as the leader of the , Bishop Gregory Parkes announced Wednesday that he’s suspending all public Mass celebrations in the Tampa Bay area.

The move, which is effective immediately, is being done to help limit the spread of COVID-19. The bishop said It’s in effect until it’s determined that it’s safe to return to normal public worship schedules.

In a video released Wednesday, Parkes said, while people won't be able to receive communion, churches won't completely shut down.

"I have asked our pastors to keep our churches open for private prayer and devotion, and to make every effort to keep the faith life of our parishes alive by creative means which are adapted to the current circumstances,” said Parkes.

https://vimeo.com/398619350

At some parishes, that means live-streaming Masses. Parkes also gave worshipers dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass.

The bishop asked that people limit weddings and funerals to family members, and baptisms be performed only in emergencies. Confirmations, public confession services, and other parish and social events are also being postponed.

The diocese has nearly half a million parishioners at 74 parishes in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties.

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Mark Schreiner has been the producer and reporter for "University Beat" on WUSF 89.7 FM since 2001 and on WUSF TV from 2007-2017.