Places of worship are at the center of a few outbreaks of the coronavirus in the U.S. Now some faith leaders have asked people to worship at home.
Brian Wallace, a spokesperson for the Diocese of Bridgeport, says Mass scheduled in parishes will continue. But he also says the obligation to attend is suspended for at least three weeks.
“We think probably Mass attendance will be lighter, but it’s consistent with the bishop’s concern that people protect themselves and do the right thing for a short time, and then hopefully everyone will be able to attend Mass without any concerns in the not too distant future.”
Tark Aouadi heads the Council on American-Islamic Relations, a civil liberties group that helps advise American Muslims. The group has urged Muslims in Connecticut to stay at home instead of congregating at mosques.
But Aouadi says some people will opt to practice with the congregation remotely.
“There are some mosques that are actually operating online services and online religious events through Skype and different platforms.
Rabbi Joseph Potasnik says he’s heartened by the level of commitment by congregants. Potasnik heads the New York Board of Rabbis.
“I have to say it is most gratifying to see people who want to know ‘how do I fulfill my faith traditions under these challenging conditions?’”
Many places of worship that are still open have limited certain practices, like sitting close together and sharing in communal traditions.