Bishop Malone announces dispensation from Sunday Mass obligation

2 days ago by Kevin Keenan

Bishop Richard J. Malone has granted dispensation from the Sunday Mass obligation (weekend of Nov. 22-23) for Catholics living in communities hit by this week’s unprecedented snowfall.

“It will be up to the local pastor to decide whether or not to celebrate weekend Masses in those parishes,” Bishop Malone said. “It is my advice that parishioners living in snowbound areas use their best judgment when it comes to attending Mass. Their safety and well-being is a priority, and they need to comply with local travel advisories.

“We pray for those who lost their lives during the storm, and offer our gratitude to highway crews, first responders and neighbors helping neighbors, whose tireless efforts have demonstrated the resilient spirit of Western New Yorkers,” Bishop Malone said. “Through Catholic Charities, Catholic Health and other Catholic institutions, the Catholic Church will continue to play an important role in serving those in need as recovery efforts continue.”

Bishop Malone will return from the Vatican Friday evening, where he has been participating in the International Colloquium: The Complementarity of Man and Woman.