Masses to resume in the Diocese of Legazpi

Bishop Joel Baylon of the Diocese of Legazpi says some Catholic faithful in the diocese can now attend Masses in churches starting Monday, May 25.  

He however said no Sunday and Saturday anticipated Masses will be held yet in most parishes in the Legazpi, Albay and Daraga area because of the continued threat of COVID-19.

The Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) set 10 persons as the maximum allowed attendance for religious activities. The diocese however is still waiting for the IATF to approve the proposal to allow at least one third of the church capacity. 

The bishop meanwhile laid out the guidelines for masses in an undated circular. 

Signs will be visible inside the church to encourage physical distancing. 

Parishioners are required to wear face masks during the mass. The officiating priest has the option of going without his mask, but must wear it when carrying out communion. 

Holy Communion is allowed but the host will be placed on the parishioner's hand. Markings will be placed on the floor to guide people as to where they should stand during communion. 

Entrance and exit doors will be separate. 

People under age 21 and above 60 years of age are still prohibited from going out and attending mass. 

Live streaming and online masses using the parish social media channel will still be available. 

The observance of physical distancing will lead to many parishioners not being able to attend. Parishes are encouraged to offer additional mass schedules to accommodate them. 

Barangays with small chapels can celebrate mass in covered courts to maintain physical distancing.