On March 16, Bishop of the Sioux City Diocese, R. Walker Nickless, suspended public Masses and other church-related activities for eight weeks after consulting with public health organizations and his advisors. This was done in reaction to the rapid and aggressive spread of the COVID-19 virus across the United States and Iowa and in accordance with the prohibition of gatherings of more than 10 individuals issued by Gov. Kim Reynolds. As the eighth week approached, Nickless announced late last week that the suspensions will remain in place until further notice. Nickless also announced that he, his advisors and the diocesan COVID task force will continue to monitor public health data on a national, state and regional basis daily. All decisions regarding a return to public liturgies in the Sioux City Diocese will be based on science, data and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and public health recommendations. “This demands a great sacrifice for the faithful, and I am grateful for their patience and understanding at this difficult time,” Nickless says.
