NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ – The coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic has affected many aspects of everyday life in the city.
On Friday, state officials confirmed that there are 50 positive COVID-19 cases, including one fatality, a Bergen County man.
The rapidly evolving pandemic has forced several social gatherings, cultural events, religious ceremonies and more to be altered, postponed or even canceled:
Diocese of Metuchen
Bishop James F. Checchio has announced that while masses in the Diocese of Metuchen will continue to be celebrated, the faithful are not obligated to attend until the weekend of April 4-5, when the situation will be re-evaluated as circumstances unfold.
According to a statement provided to TAPinto New Brunswick, Catholic schools in the Diocese of Metuchen are monitoring the progression of the spread of the coronavirus and the circumstances for each school will continue to be re-evaluated on a case-by-case basis, following the practice of their local school districts.
“Regardless if the Catholic faithful of our diocese choose to attend mass, this is an unprecedented time in our nation and in our world, a time for much-needed hope, and above all prayer,” Checchio said. “If anything, this is a time for more prayer, not less.”
For those who choose not to attend mass in person, a live broadcast can be viewed on the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi’s website, stfranciscathedral.org, or on several television channels. In addition, resources for prayer can be found on the Diocese of Metuchen’s website, diometuchen.org/coronavirus.
