Bishop Julito Cortes of Dumaguete reminded the faithful that following health protocols, especially during Holy Mass, manifests “Christian charity and compassion.”
“May we, as Church, be conscientious and steady agents in reminding our people to follow safety protocols … for the safety and well-being of our churchgoers, their families, and the community,” said the prelate.
The Diocese of Dumaguete is set to resume the public celebration of religious services after the government imposed a more relaxed “modified general community quarantine” in the city.
The provincial government of Negros Oriental, however, still requires people below 21 years old and those who are 60 years old and above to stay home.
Under the new quarantine classification, mass gatherings for religious purposes are allowed with 50 percent of the venue’s seating capacity.
“We are grateful we are now allowed to proceed with our public Masses and sacramental celebrations,” said the prelate.
He instructed priests to coordinate with local authorities and provide necessary advice to the faithful about the minimum health standards that everyone must observe.
Bishop Cortes lauded the members of the clergy for their “zeal and joy” and for their “creativity as we open our Churches again… while preparing for the ‘new normal’.”
