Smoke from Canadian wildfires is pushing some services indoors at the 102nd Solemn Novena to St. Ann in Scranton, which opens Friday.
Novena officials announced Thursday evening on social media that “in the interest of the health and safety of our pilgrims and visitors,” the 8 a.m. televised Mass and novena service will be celebrated indoors.
The state Department of Environmental Protection has issued an air-quality Purple Alert (very unhealthy) for the entire state for Friday. That’s one step higher than the Red Alert (unhealthy) that was in effect Thursday. The only higher level is Maroon (hazardous).
Novena officials said audio of the Mass and novena will still be broadcast outdoors Friday for those who are on the basilica grounds.
“We are hopeful that air quality will improve as the day progresses and will continue to monitor conditions throughout the day,” the social media post said. “Please keep in mind that current health officials recommend limiting outdoor activity, especially for children, older adults, and anyone with heart or lung conditions.”
The novena runs through July 26, the feast day of the namesake saint, at St. Ann’s Monastery Shrine and Basilica in West Side.