The Catholic bishops of Pennsylvania issued a joint statement Thursday indicating that the dispensation from the obligation to attend mass, which went into effect in March 2020 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, will soon be lifted.

“As life returns to normalcy in so many ways, each Catholic Bishop in Pennsylvania will reinstate the obligation to attend mass in person on Sundays and holy days beginning on Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021, the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary,” the statement read. “The Bishops had dispensed you from this obligation in March of 2020 as the developing coronavirus pandemic required people not to assemble in group settings. Now, with the impact of the pandemic considerably reduced, it is again possible for the faithful to assemble for the Eaucharist and the time for us to lift the dispensation from the obligation.”

Bishop of Erie, Rev. Lawrence Persico explained that attending mass in person is important for numerous reasons.

“We gather at mass to receive the body and blood of Jesus Christ, the source of our existence,” he explained. “It’s a reminder of the special relationship we have with God and with each other in community. We are fortunate to have an opportunity to honor God and to give God glory, praise and thanks each week.”

Persico additionally expressed his thanks to the clergy, some who incorporated technology to include parishioners in livestreamed masses, prayer services and other events, as well as other clergy who were still present for COVID-19 patients and their families throughout the pandemic. He also acknowledged the sacrifices the general public had to make during the pandemic.

“My heart is especially with those of you whose livelihoods were disrupted and those of you who lost loved ones due to the pandemic,” he said. “I know your pain was increased as a result of the many restrictions we had to endure.”