MANILA - With the government's declaration of state of public health emergency amid the spread of novel coronavirus infections, the Archdiocese of Manila has ordered stricter guidelines for the clergy and worshipers.
In a pastoral letter released on Monday, Manila's Apostolic Administrator Bishop Broderick Pabillo advised those who are sick to stay at home instead of going to church.
The bishop said the faithful "can sanctify the Lord's Day" through praying and reading the Scriptures at home, as well as watching Masses through the television and online streaming.
"Priests and lay ministers who have flu-like symptoms should also refrain from serving. This is an act of charity that we can offer to the people," Pabillo said.
The prelate also ordered that containers of 70% ethyl alcohol be stationed at the entrances of churches and other Catholic institutions.
People are also advised to avoid kissing and holding sacred images.
"Until the virus is overcome all should refrain from kissing and holding of statues and sacred images, and even the glass frames that protect them. Let there be barriers installed so that people do not go near them to touch them," the bishop said.
Meanwhile, Pabillo also ordered regular use of disinfectants in cleaning pews, benches, and microphone covers in the church.
"Churches and adoration chapels with air conditions and hardly any windows should be biomisted," the bishop added. "Open windows and doors after mass and shut off the air conditioning in order for the air, heat, and sunlight to circulate."
The bishop also reiterated measures rolled out earlier by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) including the emptying of holy water fonts in churches, refraining from holding hands during the singing or recitation of the Lord's Prayer, and exchanging of kiss and handshake during the Sign of Peace.
"While we trust in the Lord and fall on our knees to beg for his mercy, let us also stand on our feet to act and wash our hands to keep ourselves fit to serve Him and His people," Pabillo said.
Confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in the Philippines have risen to 24 with 1 death. Globally, there are now more than 110,000 cases
Below is the copy of the pastoral letter: