Washington D.C., Mar 5, 2021 / 10:30 am
Two weeks after the Bishop of Portland in Maine called state restrictions on religious gatherings "unacceptable," Maine's governor is allowing churches to host at 50% capacity beginning March 26.
Gov. Janet Mills (D) announced on Friday that Maine churches will soon be able to host indoor religious gatherings at 50% capacity, a significant change from the state's Feb. 12 restrictions of five people per 1,000 feet of church space or 50 people total.
About two hours before the state issued the order, Bishop Robert Deeley of Portland had announced the diocese would be increasing attendance limits at indoor Masses and liturgies to 50% church capacity.
"The diocese is pleased that Governor Mills agrees with the diocese's plan as Maine's Catholic churches, which have successfully held over 25,000 Masses since June, will now be in line with neighboring states in our ability to provide greater opportunity to parishioners in Maine," Dave Guthro, the head of communications for the Diocese of Portland, told CNA on Friday.