Resources for Catholics During COVID-19

Updated Jan. 11, 2021

Bishop Anthony B. Taylor released a statement Dec. 21, 2020, about COVID-19 vaccines. He said: "Receiving the vaccine is morally permissible. In fact, to be vaccinated against COVID-19 now is morally praiseworthy inasmuch as it protects the health of the person being vaccinated and likely protects others as well. This matter has been addressed recently by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and by the Holy See. For further information, see those statements, which I fully support. In short, receiving one of the vaccines currently available is justified because (1.) the connection to a past abortion is remote, (2.) the need to protect others from COVID-19 is so great, and (3.) there is currently no vaccine available which is completely free of these concerns." Read the complete statement. | En Español

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Tools to help you practice your faith

Prayers and Resources

Coronavirus Prayers

This includes a list of prayers specific to this crisis, acts of spiritual communion as well as links to general Catholic prayers and prayers to say at the end of the rosary for an end to the pandemic.

Pray at Home Resources

Tips include how to do a holy hour, keep holy the Sabbath as well as how to light a virtual prayer candle and get details on the special indulgences available during this crisis

Prayer Book of Intentions

If you are in need of prayer, please submit a prayer request. These prayers are offered up at Masses celebrated by Bishop Anthony B. Taylor and other priests at St. John Catholic Center in Little Rock.

Public Masses

Sunday Mass Obligation Resumes for Those in Good Health

Bishop Anthony B. Taylor announced that he was lifting the dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass (in person) on Oct. 1, 2020, for those in good health. The dispensation remains in effect for those under certain conditions. "There has been no change in the protocols in place for protecting our people from the spread of COVID-19 on church property and at church functions. All requirements of mask wearing, 6 feet physical distancing and hand sanitizing remain in place," he explained. Contact your parish directly for Mass times and requirements for attendance.

Online Masses

Dispensation from Obligation Remains under Certain Conditions

Even though the dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass (in person) has been lifted for people in good health, it remains for some under certain conditions, which include: those who are ill; those who are under quarantine or isolation due to Covid-19; those who are especially vulnerable to Covid-19 or caring for someone who is especially vulnerable (e.g., due to chronic illness, advanced age, or in a high risk group as defined by the CDC); and those who, after serious prayer and deliberation, remain very fearful of attending Mass due to Covid-19. For those unable to attend in person, several options are available to watch Mass online or on television. If you miss the recording live, the recordings are available for playback at any time. Please confirm times with the parish to make sure you have the most up to date information.

In Arkansas

See online Mass times for parishes across the Diocese of Little Rock

Outside Arkansas

See online Mass options worldwide

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Confession Guidelines

Per Bishop Taylor's directive, face-to-face confessions are only permitted when 6 feet physical distance can be maintained. A screen must separate the penitent and confessor and disinfectant wipes should be used to wipe down the screen between confessions. Small "confessional boxes" are problematic; a larger room or outdoor venue is preferable. See also guidelines on "Drive-Thru Confessions."

Confession Times

We list regular confession times for parishes statewide, but we recommend you contact your parish directly to confirm its confession times and location. Many parishes are offering special confession times during this crisis and may need to make adjustments to when and where they offer the sacrament of reconciliation until the threat of COVID-19 is gone.

Special Indulgences during Pandemic

The Vatican established special indulgences to anyone suffering from COVID-19, as well as health care workers, family members and all those who in any capacity, including through prayer, care for them.

Faith Formation

Catholic ministries are working hard to help parishioners continue to practice their faith in the domestic church. This page offers a list of faith formation resources in Arkansas and beyond that have been created specifically for this crisis or have been made available for free during this time.