Bishop Strickland is asking the clergy and the assembly to wear masks during public liturgical celebrations in the Diocese of Tyler. Small children and anyone with a disability that prevents wearing a mask are exempt. Clergy, readers, and cantors may temporarily remove masks while reciting the liturgical texts and scriptures, preaching, or leading song.
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El Monseñor Strickland le pide al clero y a la asamblea que lleven máscaras durante las celebraciones litúrgicas públicas en la Diócesis de Tyler. Los niños pequeños y cualquier persona con una discapacidad que impida el uso de una máscara están exentos. El clero, los lectores y los cantores pueden quitarse temporalmente las máscaras mientras recitan los textos litúrgicos y las escrituras, predican o dirigen el canto.
Considering that it is my responsibility to show concern and act with humanity and the charity of Christ toward all those entrusted to my care as Bishop of Tyler (c. 383, §§1, 3), and recognizing my duty to direct, promote, and guard the liturgical life of the diocese (c. 835, §1); and
Having consulted medical experts and heeding the guidance of the civil authorities and public health professionals regarding the critical need to limit gatherings to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus disease, including the guidelines issued by the President of the United States in this time of national emergency;
Therefore, in virtue of my ordinary, proper, and immediate authority as diocesan bishop, I hereby decree as follows:
1. The suspension of all public Masses in the Diocese of Tyler. Accordingly, this includes a dispensation for all the faithful in the diocese from the obligation to participate at Mass on Sundays and holy days of obligation (cc. 87, §1; 1247).