News: Mask Requirement Continues in Churches

February 7, 2021

Although Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds lifted mask requirements throughout the state effective Feb. 7, the Diocese of Des Moines will continue to require masks on all church property through Divine Mercy Sunday, April 11.

The Diocese continues to require masks, 6-foot social distancing between non-household members and sanitizing to mitigate the spread of COVID-29.

“Even as conditions improve, we are aware we have not yet emerged from the pandemic, and continued vigilance and precautions are needed,” said Bishop William Joensen in a letter to parishes and the faithful Jan. 31. “The decision corresponds to the recommendations of public health experts within the local medical community.”

The Diocese will re-evaluate the mask requirement as Divine Mercy Sunday nears. For more information, see this story.