Bishop Gainer Temporarily Suspends All Masses

Today and effective immediately until further notice, Bishop Ronald W. Gainer, out of great concern for the health of the faithful and in union with the Bishops of Pennsylvania, has temporarily suspended all daily and weekend Masses in the Diocese of Harrisburg. Additionally, Bishop Gainer has suspended all public liturgies and devotions, and has asked that all churches and chapels be closed, including all perpetual adoration chapels.

Bishop Gainer made this decision after careful consideration of the recommendations from public health officials, and out of great concern for the health and well-being of the faithful, our clergy and parish staffs, given the current coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

Bishop Gainer Grants Dispensation for Sunday Mass Obligation

The Diocese of Harrisburg, at the direction of Bishop Gainer, has requested that all parishes and institutions temporarily suspend the distribution of the Precious Blood by way of the Chalice and omit the exchange of peace, effective immediately. This decision was made out of an abundance of caution due to the serious nature of the influenza virus this season and due to public concerns regarding the Coronavirus. The Diocese often asks parishes to suspend the sign of peace and distribution of the Precious Blood during serious flu seasons. This temporary suspension will be lifted once medical professionals indicate the high risk has passed.

Bishop Gainer Temporarily Suspends Distribution of the Precious Blood, Omits the Exchange of Peace

The Diocese of Harrisburg, at the direction of Bishop Gainer, has requested that all parishes and institutions temporarily suspend the distribution of the Precious Blood by way of the Chalice and omit the exchange of peace, effective immediately. This decision was made out of an abundance of caution due to the serious nature of the influenza virus this season and due to public concerns regarding the Coronavirus. The Diocese often asks parishes to suspend the sign of peace and distribution of the Precious Blood during serious flu seasons. This temporary suspension will be lifted once medical professionals indicate the high risk has passed.

Diocese of Harrisburg Issues Statement Regarding Recently Filed Lawsuit

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Harrisburg released the following statement regarding a recently filed lawsuit against the Diocese of Harrisburg, Bishop Kevin Rhoades and Bishop Ronald Gainer regarding alleged crimes.

The Ordination Mass will begin at 10 a.m. in St. Patrick Cathedral, 212 State Street, Harrisburg.  Bishop Gainer will be the principal celebrant and perform the Rite of Ordination during the Mass.  The Mass will be streamed live on the Diocesan website at www.hbgdiocese.org/live.

Diocese to Ordain Four to the Priesthood

On Saturday, June 1, Bishop Ronald W. Gainer will ordain Deacons Matthew Edward Cannon, Samuel Edward Good Miller, Andrew Philip St. Hilaire and Joshua Robert Weaver to the Priesthood for the Diocese of Harrisburg.

The Ordination Mass will begin at 10 a.m. in St. Patrick Cathedral, 212 State Street, Harrisburg.  Bishop Gainer will be the principal celebrant and perform the Rite of Ordination during the Mass.  The Mass will be streamed live on the Diocesan website at www.hbgdiocese.org/live.