Due to rising COVID-19 numbers in West Tennessee, Bishop David Talley issued a Decree on Friday, Dec. 11, granting dispensation from the obligation to attend holy Mass until further notice. In granting dispensation, the Bishop reminded everyone that parishes will remain open for those who wish to attend Mass:
"FIRST, as of today, by this DECREE, I offer a DISPENSATION from the obligation to attend the celebration of holy Mass on Sundays and on Holy Days of obligation, to all the faithful in the 21 counties that make up the Catholic Diocese of Memphis. This DISPENSATION from the "Sunday obligation" will remain in effect until I judge it safe to call all to join me again for public worship. Our Pastors will continue their spiritual and corporal works of mercy. Our priests will continue to offer holy Mass and stream the celebration of holy Mass. We are not closing our parishes; but we are to follow the guidelines that follow, for the health of all, for the common good of all."
To read the decree in full, CLICK HERE.