The Diocese of Brooklyn has closed all its churches in Brookyn and Queens after two priests tested positive for coronavirus.
All churches, rectories and parish offices under the diocese will closed until further notice, and will continue to serve the community via telephone and social media.
The diocese says funerals, weddings, and baptisms will not be permitted.
Outdoor graveside services will be allowed in accordance with CDC guidelines regarding social distancing.
Confession will be limited to emergencies only and could be held outdoors to obey social distancing orders.
One of the priests who tested positive is from Sacred Heart of Jesus in Glendale, Queens. He last celebrated Sunday Mass at 8 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. on March 15. He was also at the soup supper March 14 in the church basement.
The other priest who tested positive celebrated Mass at St. Matthew’s Church in Crown Heights, Brooklyn on Sunday, March 15 at 11:30 a.m.
Both churches and rectories now will undergo a deep cleaning and sanitization.