Dear Friends in Christ:

Starting Friday, June 18, 2021, Pastors may accommodate the faithful for the celebration of the Sacrifice of the Mass as well as other sacramental and worship services at 100% of the seating capacity in the parish churches.

DECREE

On March 13, 2020, I granted a dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation for all members of the Catholic Faithful in the Diocese of Sacramento, in order to mitigate the further spread and devastation brought about by the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Having reviewed the latest information and protocols from health officials, a general dispensation is no longer necessary.  Consequently, by this decree, I hereby lift the general dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days, effective Sunday, June 20, 2021.  The obligation for the Catholic faithful to be present and participate in Mass on Sundays and Holy Days is hereby restored (1983 CIC c. 1247) as of that date.

I am delighted to announce that Uli Schmitt has accepted my invitation to serve as the Chancellor of the Diocese of Sacramento beginning Thursday, July 1, 2021.  He will succeed Kathy Conner who is retiring.  Her last day will be Wednesday, June 30, 2021.

Uli Schmitt will continue many of his current duties as the Director of Clergy Coordination and Formation, along with new responsibilities as Chancellor.

In addition, I am pleased to announce that Chantal LeFevre has accepted my invitation to serve as the Vice Chancellor and Director of Administration beginning Thursday, July 1, 2021.

Chantal LeFevre will work with Uli Schmitt in the office of the Chancellor to coordinate the management of the Pastoral Center.