Fargo, Sioux Falls bishops announces new restrictions due to threat of coronavirus

March 18, 2020

FARGO – The bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Fargo has canceled Mass and ordered extraordinary new restrictions on weddings, funerals, baptisms and other church events due to the threat of coronavirus.

Bishop John Folda (pictured) says the new rules will go into effect at noon today (Wednesday).

The same restrictions hold true for the Catholic Diocese of Sioux Falls according to Bishop Donald DeGrood. 

Funerals, weddings and baptisms will be allowed, but they must be attended by 10 or fewer people.

Parishes that normally keep their churches open during the day are to retain this practice, if possible, so that individual members may come for private prayer.