Catholic Church suspends activities in city amid MECQ

All public liturgical celebrations in Catholic churches in Iloilo City are suspended amid the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ).

The Archdiocese of Jaro led by Archbishop Jose Romeo Lazo announced via its official social media page on Wednesday the suspension of religious activities during the entire period of MECQ from June 3 to June 15, 2021.

The church was compelled to suspend the holding of religious activities following the request of Mayor Jerry Treñas.

The move is part of efforts to stem the surge in COVID-19 cases in the city.

“Due to the immediate public health attention in Iloilo City and as requested by the Iloilo City Mayor, the Archbishop suspends all public liturgical celebrations in all city parishes effective June 3, 2021 until June 15, 2021,” the advisory said.

Following the suspension of religious activities, the Archdiocese of Jaro issued guidelines for public and congregational gatherings.

All public celebrations or any congregational gatherings including weekday and Sunday masses are cancelled until further notice. Faithful are encouraged to participate in the Eucharistic celebration through social media.

“The Archbishop dispenses the faithful from their Sunday obligation to participate in the Holy Eucharist but they are still encouraged to make the day holy by praying together as a family and by doing acts of charity.”

For baptism and confirmation, proper scheduling of baptism and confirmation must be observed to ensure that the number of those to be baptized or confirmed do not crowd the venue. The Church encouraged that only parents and two godparents can attend the celebration.

As for church weddings, the church enjoins couples to hold the sacrament of Holy Matrimony as simple as possible.

“Social distancing must be observed and holding of hands is to be avoided. No need for secondary sponsors. During the marriage rite, the principal sponsors will stay in their place,” the Archdiocese of Jaro said.

Meanwhile, attendance to funeral masses should be limited within the family members.

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the Catholic church reminded Ilonggos to strengthen their faith by praying regularly.

“This moment of crisis is a moment to strengthen our faith. As a people of God, our primary and basic response to this pandemic is no other than prayer. Prayer casts away all fears therefore, the faithful are exhorted to pray daily, The Family of Rosary, Litany of Saints, Devotion to San Roque, the powerful saint implored during times of plagues; and Oratio Imperata against COVID-19.”

Treñas said he will also request other religious congregations to limit religious activities.

“While we requested the different religions to temporarily stop mass gatherings, we cannot overemphasize the need for prayers. We will do everything humanely possible, but the Lord will guide as to do the correct decisions. Please continue to pray to the Almighty especially during these times,” Treñas said. (ERS)