For Immediate Release: March 18, 2020
RICHMOND, Va. – Due to his extensive travel schedule within the Catholic Diocese of Richmond for the last two weeks and out of care and caution, Bishop Barry C. Knestout is in self-quarantine after experiencing the symptoms of a minor cold last weekend. This morning (Wednesday), Bishop Knestout visited a healthcare facility to receive tests for the flu and COVID-19, or the novel coronavirus. Upon the recommendation of his doctor, his Excellency remains in self-quarantine following the guidelines of the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
Bishop Knestout stresses that he does not feel seriously ill but is taking this measure as a precaution and is eager to return to public ministry. Until then, he will wait until doctors advise him of the status of the COVID-19 test and he is cleared to proceed with his public ministry.
Once more information comes back and with Bishop Knestout’s permission, we will share with our faithful the results of Bishop Knestout’s status.
Currently, Bishop Knestout has cancelled any further engagements on his calendar until further notice. He continues to lead the diocese through video teleconferencing and other forms of electronic communication.
We thank the healthcare professionals and first responders on the front lines as they tirelessly work to treat and care for our communities. Tomorrow, as we celebrate the feast of St. Joseph, devoted husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we offer a message of hope and prayer for all working to tackle this pandemic. We also ask our faithful to keep them in your prayers.
Please continue to pray for Bishop Knestout and the priests and deacons of our diocese. We pray for their health and well-being as they work to fulfill the mission of our Church.
Watch a video message from Bishop Knestout here.
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