Archdiocese of Newark announces phased reopening of churches

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, Archbishop of Newark, announced this week a three-phase grad- ual reopening process for churches throughout the Archdiocese to ensure the health and well-being of clergy and faithful.

Beginning on Sunday, May 17, Phase One reopened churches in the Archdiocese for private prayer only, following all public health guidelines and once pastors determine they can safely do so. As part of Phase One, the Sacrament of Reconciliation also may be celebrated if social dis- tancing can be maintained and masks are worn.

An Archdiocesan Task Force has continued to monitor safety protocols along the reopening.

The Archdiocesan Task Force is currently deter- mining the timing for the implementation of the next two phases Phase Two will incorporate the celebration of weekday Masses and Phase Three will permit Sunday Masses.