The Archdiocese of Dubuque announced today that public celebrations of Mass will be canceled beginning Thursday, March 19.

Archbishop Michael Jackels posted on the archdiocesan website that all Catholics in the archdiocese will receive dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass.

Jackels writes that the decision was made “after consultation and considerable prayer” and is aimed at slowing the spread of coronavirus.

The archbishop will livestream a celebration of Mass each Sunday, as well as certain other ceremonies. Live streamed events will be found at DBQArch.org.

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