Surging numbers of COVID-19 cases in Ontario is resulting in stricter control measures for Catholic churches in Toronto and the surrounding regions of York and Peel.
Beginning Nov. 24, churches in those areas must restrict attendance at all liturgical celebrations to 50 people, Cardinal Thomas Collins, Archbishop of Toronto, said in a release Nov. 17.
“While we know that our 30-per-cent capacity restrictions as well as our extensive health and safety protocols have been extremely effective, we must also seriously consider the direction of local medical officers asking that places of worship further restrict attendance at liturgical services,” Collins said.
The directive comes with the province’s move to put Toronto, Peel and York into the “red zone,” just one step short of a total lockdown.
Churches in Durham and Orangeville (“orange zone”) as well as Simcoe (“yellow zone”) will continue to operate with 30-per-cent capacity limits.
“I recognize this is an extremely challenging and difficult situation for clergy, pastoral teams and parishioners,” said Collins. “We must also be mindful of our primary concern — our love of neighbour and our collective need to reduce the potential transmission of COVID-19.
The 50-person limit for Masses, weddings, funerals and other liturgical celebrations excludes those involved in ministry such as priests and ushers.
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