SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — With a major winter storm expected to affect northeastern and north-central Pennsylvania this weekend, the Diocese of Scranton is advising parishioners to prioritize safety as hazardous travel conditions develop.
The National Weather Service is forecasting heavy snowfall across the region, with some areas potentially receiving a foot of snow or more. The storm is expected to begin late Saturday night and continue through Monday morning, raising concerns about dangerous road conditions and limited travel.
Diocesan officials are encouraging the faithful to use sound judgment when deciding whether to travel for Mass. Parishioners are urged to attend a Saturday Vigil Mass when possible, particularly if conditions worsen by Sunday.
While the Church teaches that Sunday Mass attendance is a serious obligation, canon law acknowledges that certain circumstances can excuse participation. Unsafe travel conditions, illness, caring for someone who is sick, being homebound, or lacking transportation are among the situations recognized as legitimate reasons for not attending Mass in person.
Those unable to attend are encouraged to participate remotely by watching their parish’s livestreamed Mass or tuning in to the televised Mass from the Cathedral of Saint Peter in Scranton. The Cathedral Mass airs live Saturdays at 5:30 p.m. on CTV: Catholic Television of the Diocese of Scranton, with rebroadcasts on Sunday at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. The Mass is also available online through the Diocese of Scranton’s website and YouTube channel.
Individual parishes will determine whether to hold or cancel Masses, religious education classes, and other parish activities based on local conditions. Parishioners are advised to check their parish’s website or social media pages before traveling.
The Diocese is also asking parishioners to follow instructions from state and local emergency officials throughout the storm. Diocesan leaders expressed appreciation for clergy and parish staff for their continued pastoral care and commitment to safety during the severe weather.