The Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops Conference has with immediate effect suspended liturgical services and church gatherings at all Catholic churches to allow its members to self-isolate as a mitigatory measure to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
By Staff Reporter
All members will now have to stay and pray at home, the church said.
The church has also cancelled all pastoral visits to self-isolating members and anointing of the sick will now be done through the phone. Burials will also be left to family members and associates due to the pandemic.
“Our obedience in this time of crisis is an act of charity,” the bishops said in a statement.
“All priests should, however, continue to celebrate mass in their parishes without a congregation.”
Keep Reading
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
The bishops urged members to watch live streaming of masses from home.
“We want everyone to understand that in these emergency circumstances, and for as long as they last, the obligation to attend mass on Sundays and Holy days is removed.”
The bishops said the pandemic was the reason why the Sunday obligation has been suspended.