After a tug-of-war between the Church and State, Italian bishops signed an agreement with their government to specify how to safely celebrate Mass again.
The first Masses will take place Monday, May 18, with these measures in place.
STEFANO RUSSO
Secretary, Italian Episcopal Conference
'The defined protocol lays out some sanitary measures, so we can return to celebrate, while respecting everyone's health.'
They refer to the parish, the priest and the faithful.
Church
Churches must limit the number of participants, to ensure a distance of one-meter at all times.
Parishes that can, should have designated entrances and exits.
Hand sanitizer must be available at the door, there is to be no holy water, and liturgical items and the microphone should be cleaned after each ceremony.
Priest
The priest can celebrate baptisms, weddings and funerals; but not confirmation. He must give communion with a mask and gloves.
There won't be a collection, but donations can be placed in baskets positioned around the church.
Participants
Those with fever, coronavirus, or in contact with an infected person cannot attend Mass. All must wear masks, regardless.
There will be no sign of peace, no handouts to follow along during the Mass, and no choir. However, a single organist is allowed.
Of course, like the rest of the measures, if the number of people infected increases, religious ceremonies will be suspended again to stop the spread.
For now, the Vatican has not announced when the pope's ceremonies with pilgrims will resume.
JMB/MB
