The Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Circular reminds all people to pray fervently and take precautionary measures to protect the people of the world from the coronavirus. The circular states that March 27 should be celebrated as a day of prayer in all dioceses of Kerala and fervent prayers for mercy of God all over the world.
Full Version of the Circular:
The coronavirus virus is now in the second stage of its spread. Doctors have warned that getting into stage III or IV can be very dangerous. As individuals, parishes and institutions, we must continue to take stringent anti-virus measures in this regard. The cooperation of the people of Kerala is very satisfactory. However, with all the restrictions put forward by the Government in particular on 18.03.2020, Hon. The people should give their full cooperation to the suggestions made by the Chief Minister of Kerala through video conferences with various religious representatives. In the current situation, following the instructions of the doctors and the government, the following precautions are lovingly requested.
1. V. of the Temples. Be careful not to have large crowds for Mass and other corrections. Clergy to the Worshiping Communities of the Under 50s It would be appropriate to make arrangements for the Mass to be celebrated. Even in small groups, people with colds, sneezing, coughing, or fever should never get into it. V in some temples under very special circumstances. If it is found that it is advisable to stop the payment of money, the concerned Diocese should take a decision in this regard.
2. All the temples should be kept open as usual to facilitate individual prayers.
3. In the present situation, children, the elderly, and other persons with health problems should be able to attend the online Mass at home.
4. In all the possible temples and institutions. Everyone should pray fervently to save the world from the coronavirus by worshiping the Eucharist.
5. Prayer Day should be observed in all dioceses of Kerala on 27th March 2020. It is better to fast that day.
6. In the last week of March, appropriate instructions will be given from the respective churches for taking into consideration the circumstances surrounding the holy week.
7. It is advisable to form an expert team of doctors to advise the diocese on matters pertaining to the spread of coronavirus.
Together with the psalmist, we can confess that the Lord is our refuge, our trust and our stronghold (Psalm 91:12). Let us earnestly pray for God’s mercy on us and the whole world.
