The Catholic Diocese of Richmond continues to follow the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) guidelines relating to mask wearing.

Information for the Faithful

The dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday and Holy Day Mass obligation for all the faithful in the Catholic Diocese of Richmond ceased effective June 26, 2021. At that time, the dispensation was lifted and the obligation to attend Mass was in effect. The decision to remove the dispensation was made by the archbishops of Baltimore and Washington, and by the bishops of Arlington, Richmond, Wheeling-Charleston and Wilmington for their (arch)dioceses.

This obligation does not apply to those who have reason to believe that they were recently exposed to the coronavirus, another serious or contagious illness; those who are confined to their home, a hospital, or nursing facility; or those with serious underlying health conditions.

Those with questions regarding the lifting of the dispensation should contact their pastors.

Mass celebrated by Bishop Knestout will be livestreamed from the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. Previously streamed on diocesan communication platforms, as of Jan. 2, 2022, you can continue to celebrate via livestream the 9 a.m. Mass by visiting www.richmondcathedral.org.

Mass Guidelines

Per the VDH, masks should be worn in indoor public areas in counties where there is a high COVID-19 community level. In areas of low and medium COVID-19 community levels, masks are welcome at the discretion of the individual.

Diocesan Schools

The Office of Catholic Schools remains committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for our teachers and students.  The Office of Catholic Schools has coordinated guidance for schools in accordance with the CDC and VDH guidelines.

Diocesan Programs and Campus Ministry Programs follow CDC/VDH guidelines relating to mask wearing.

Coronavirus Prayer Card from USCCB (En español)

Daily Readings from USCCB (En español)

Spiritual Communion Prayer Card