SALZBURG (Reuters) – The state government has taken steps to allow the reopening of churches in the European country of Austria. Prime Minister Sebastian Kurz said Tuesday that he has given permission to open churches, restaurants, and some schools since the end of next month. Following the announcement of the Prime Minister, Secretary-General of the Austrian Catholic Bishops Conference, Fr. Peter Shipka has confirmed the news. Churches are expected to open on May 15.
Cardinal Christoph Schoenborn, president of the National Bishops’ Council, said he was very pleased with the decision. Austria was one of the first European countries to adopt lock-down measures. As of Wednesday, there were 14,925 confirmed cases in the country. There were 510 deaths. 11,328 patients were discharged. The administration’s decision is to extend corona tests in the wake of the concessions on lockdown.
