WASHINGTON, DC – His Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, J.C.D., Archbishop for the Military Services, USA, has issued the following statement on the U.S. Navy’s policy revision allowing attendance at indoor religious services during the COVID-19 pandemic:

“The revision of the U.S. Navy’s orders to allow for the participation by Navy personnel in indoor religious services, provided that the appropriate guidelines are met, is most welcome. The change recognizes that worship is a part of the exercise of religious liberty and helps to ensure the readiness of the forces who defend us.

“It is clear that the Catholic Church has taken to heart the CDC measures and organized the celebration of the sacraments in ways that ensure the safety of participants, good order, and the dignity of the rites. I am sure that other religious groups will do the same.

“I am grateful to the Department of the Navy and everyone else who contributed to this timely revision.”