The Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh has announced a number of changes in response to the global spread of coronavirus. So far there are no cases in the Pittsburgh area, but the Allegheny County Health Department and other public organizations are preparing for what they say is inevitable. To go along with these preparations, Catholics can expect the following changes when they attend Sunday Mass:

• The distribution of the Precious Blood during communion is temporarily suspended
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• Holy Water fonts will be cleaned and drained more often
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• The exchange of handshakes and other physical contact during the Sign of Peace is temporarily suspended
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• Those who feel ill are being advised to stay home from Mass until they are well.