DECREE
On March 11, 2020, I granted a dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass on Sunday for those members of the Faithful who are sixty years of age and older as well as those suffering vulnerable health conditions.
Due to new instructions provided by State and local public health officials, I now extend this dispensation to include all members of the Catholic Faithful from the obligation to attend Mass on Sunday. This dispensation will continue until further notice.
In granting this dispensation I remind the Catholic Faithful to properly observe the third commandment, Keep Holy the Lord’s Day. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us: On Sundays and other holy days of obligation, the faithful are to refrain from engaging in work or activities that hinder the worship owed to God, the joy proper to the Lord's Day, the performance of the works of mercy, and the appropriate relaxation of mind and body. Family needs or important social service can legitimately excuse from the obligation of Sunday rest.” (CCC, 2185)
All the Faithful should seek with greater intention to consecrate the day with prayer and attention given to building up the family.
I encourage the faithful to offer a rosary on Sundays for the intention of all those afflicted by the virus, COVID-19 as well as for the sanctification of the Faithful and Clergy during this Lenten Season. I recommend a family recitation of the rosary as a healthy and holy practice during Lent as well as throughout the year.
I instruct the pastors of parishes in the Diocese to educate the faithful about this dispensation as well as other public health precautions to be observed at this time. Pastors are to continue offering Sunday Mass for those members of faithful who desire and are able to attend. If possible, the pastors should maintain the regular Sunday schedule of Masses.
Please pray for those afflicted with COVID-19, their families, and all caregivers. May intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary bring us the healing mercy and grace of her Son, Jesus.
+Jaime Soto
Bishop of Sacramento