BUFFALO, N.Y. — ​As New York has lifted nearly every COVID-19 restriction, the Buffalo Catholic Diocese is beginning to ease some of its policies, but it is remaining cautious.

Masks will now be optional if you want to attend a service, but the diocese says people from different households should still consider staying social distanced.

Also, there will be no requirement to show proof of vaccination if you attend an in-person service.

The diocese is also keeping holy water stations empty and will not have shared hymnals in the pews.

The Buffalo Diocese is also holding off on bringing back church choirs. It hopes by fall of this year to be able to lift the remaining restrictions.