At least a hundred people can attend Mass inside the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, or Quiapo Church, in Manila starting July 10.
Monsignor Hernando Coronel, rector of the basilica, said at least a hundred people can be accommodated inside the church because it has a 1,000 seating capacity.
The government announced on Friday, July 3, that for areas under “general community quarantine,” churches can hold services with 10 percent of its capacity attending.
Church leaders welcomed the decision, saying “it’s a good sign” and a “good start” to reopen churches.
In areas under “modified general community quarantine,” churches are allowed to hold services at 50 percent seating capacity.
Diocesan guidelines around the resumption of Mass have been issued to parishes and are in line with national protocols.
“We will make adjustments for next Friday,” said Monsignor Coronel speaking about the popular Friday Masses in Manila’s Quiapo district.
The priest said those who would not be able to attend the Mass will be allowed to enter the church afterwards to pray.
“We let them enter for private prayer when there is no Mass,” he said. “We have volunteers to ensure the health protocols,” added Monsignor Coronel.
