Masks will be optional in Catholic parishes beginning Feb. 26 and Catholic schools beginning Feb. 28 in the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh following an announcement from Bishop David Zubik.

According to a statement posted on the diocese website, priests, deacons and liturgical ministers in the sanctuary as well as ushers and greeters will no longer be obligated to wear masks at Mass after the end of the month.

Parishioners will again be able to share the Sign of Peace, which involves shaking hands during Mass. Laypeople will also again be able to present the bread and wine used for Communion. Distribution of consecrated wine during Communion from the cup during Mass will remain suspended.

The statement says that all parish events outside of Mass may be held in-person. Livestream options for Mass and activities will continue for those who are unable to attend in person.

Masking will continue on school buses as required by federal law, and masks will also be required for anyone who has tested positive for COVID for five days after their return to work or school.

“For more than two years, the leaders in our parishes and schools have worked diligently to protect themselves, each other and our community from COVID-19,” Zubik said in the statement.

“We have learned to create safe environments and to quickly adapt when outbreaks require us to exercise greater caution,” he said “We thank God that local infections have dropped and pray that our anticipated adjustments will be the first of many steps toward resuming ways of worship and learning that we all have missed so much.”

Zubik encouraged everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated for COVID-19 and get their booster shot.

“Getting vaccinated is a sign of our concern for our neighbors. It should be done out of love for our Lord who told us to care for the health of others,” Zubik said.

The statement also said if the number of positive cases surges in a specific county or within a specific parish or school, “mitigation measures, including mandatory masking, may be reinstated.”

The Diocese of Pittsburgh has 70 parishes, 29 elementary schools, and seven high schools spanning Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Greene, Lawrence and Washington counties. Holy Sepulcher Catholic School, North Catholic High School, St. Killian Parish School, St. Gregory School and Butler Catholic School are among the schools within Butler County.