Diocesan News

On Dec. 22, Governor Charlie Baker issued new limits on gatherings due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the Commonwealth.  Places of worship are included in the new limitations, which take effect on Saturday, Dec. 26, and will remain in effect at least through Jan. 10.

In a year that has not just encouraged reinvention, but demanded it, congregations across the diocese are coming up with creative and safe ways to tell the familiar story of the birth of Jesus anew.

This pastoral message, with updated pandemic guidance, was issued by the bishops of the dioceses of Massachusetts and Western Massachusetts on Nov. 19, 2020.

As cooler weather arrives and outdoor gatherings become less feasible, we are hearing a desire for conversation and further guidance about gathering in our churches as the pandemic continues. 

Signaling that the work of the church continues despite pandemic, this year’s annual Diocesan Convention moves online and, disrupted but undeterred, will seek to respond to momentous issues of these times.

Racial justice and the climate crisis are the focus of resolutions to come before the Diocesan Convention at its virtual gathering next month—under the theme of “Embracing Brave Change” drawn from the multiyear diocesan mission strategy and particularly resonant in this unusual year.