Bishop Burbidge to lift most COVID-19 protocols beginning May 28

Earlier this month, Governor Ralph Northam announced that Virginia will lift nearly all of its COVID-19 mitigation restrictions on May 28. In response, Bishop Michael Burbidge has announced that the Diocese of Arlington will lift most of its COVID-19 protocols beginning on May 28.

Beginning on Friday, May 28, 2021:

• The Basilica will not have occupancy limits on Mass attendance
• The Basilica will not have social distancing
• Since there will no longer be any space limitations for our Masses, the Basilica will discontinue using the Lyceum Auditorium for overflow seating.
• The Basilica will continue to livestream all Masses on our parish website.
• Fully vaccinated people will no longer be required to wear a face covering in any setting. Unvaccinated persons are encouraged to wear face coverings per Governor Northam’s Executive Order 79. Priests and staff will not inquire into the vaccination status of parishioners.
• The following liturgical elements that have been suspended will now be reintroduced:
  • Holy water
  • Offertory procession
  • The sign of peace (without physical contact between non-family members)

At this time, the dispensation from Sunday Mass and Holy Days of Obligation remains in effect. Further announcements regarding this matter will be conveyed in the near future.

Schools will continue to operate on a separate set of guidelines. For example: All students, teachers, staff, and visitors must wear a mask over their nose and mouth while on school property subject EO 79.