Bishop Daniel Jenky said all educational programs at Catholic schools throughout the Diocese of Peoria are suspended next week to allow for cleaning and disinfecting in all buildings in the wake of COVID-19 concerns.
The bishop said principals and faculty will use the time to prepare online teaching days. He said if the coronavirus health crisis continues, classes will probably be suspended for "the foreseeable future."
"I fully realize this moment of great concern could pass rather quickly, but I also do not think we can take any risk at this time of endangering lives," Jenky said. "I believe it is more prudent to be 'proactive' rather than 'reactive' in the face of serious danger."
Jenky is also suspending the Sunday Mass obligation for area parishoners - and strongly urging people over age 60 to stay home. Jenky is also canceling Cathedral and Regional Confirmations. Religious education programs, prayer groups, and parish events should also be canceled, he said.
