Press Release

MERRILLVILLE – The Diocese of Gary, along with the other four dioceses in the State of Indiana, will initiate plans to gradually resume public liturgies. In the diocese of Gary, guidelines to resume public worship will be reviewed with priests later this week and will begin to be implemented at parishes in the following weeks.

In a joint statement released today, the bishops of the Province of Indianapolis, announced that the five Catholic dioceses will resume public liturgies, including Mass and Sacraments, by May 30, the Vigil of Pentecost, with restrictions outlined by each diocese.

The statement further articulates that the dispensation from the obligation to participate at Mass on Sundays is extended throughout the State of Indiana until Aug. 15.

Most Rev. Robert J. McClory, Bishop of Gary, said the decision was made after considering appropriate ways to safely reopen public worship. “It’s important that we get it right, not rushed,” Bishop McClory said. “We will resume public liturgies gradually as we implement new protocols at the parish level.”

The Indiana governor’s plan allows for indoor worship services to convene, following specific social distancing guidelines. The strong preference is that places of worship continue to use virtual services. The governor further encouraged church leaders to ask those 65 and older, and those at elevated risk, to remain at home until at least May 24.