THE Archdiocese of Manila called on the elderly not to volunteer in church amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Bishop Broderick Pabillo of Manila said the elderly should make the “temporary” sacrifice for their own protection from the disease.
“My dear elderly parish volunteers, even as we appreciate your willingness and good intention to serve, we are also concerned about your health and the health of your family,” said the bishop.
“Please make this sacrifice, and I know for many it is a sacrifice, not to serve in the liturgical services until this pandemic is over,” he added.
“This is just temporary. The time will surely come when you may again be able to come and serve, which we hope and pray will be soon,” said Bishop Pabillo, apostolic administrator of the archdiocese.
“I would appeal to our elderly parish volunteers that if you truly love your parish, you will recruit one or two young volunteers to take your place in the church,” he said.
The prelate said there is a need for more volunteers now because there are new ministries to be created in parishes, such as the health ministry and the social communications ministry.
“We will have to bring communion to the sick and to the elderly near their homes. We will need people to help keep the proper physical distancing and to regularly disinfect our churches,” he said.
He said the elderly can still perform an important service by praying for the Church while in their homes.
“Though still kept in your houses for the time being, please accompany the church activities with your prayers and spiritual, and even material, offerings,” said Bishop Pabillo.
