Coronavirus: Catholic Church Suspends Sign Of Peace Among Members

The Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos has temporarily suspended the exchange of sign of peace during Masses following the outbreak of Coronavirus in Nigeria.
The sign of peace is a traditional Christian greeting, which signifies a wish and blessing that peace be with the recipient when they exchange handshakes or hugs.Catholic Church Suspends Sign Of Peace Among Members
In a special circular released by the Catholic sect today, the Archbishop of Lagos Adewale Martins further directed that communion will now be received in the palm. He also encouraged people to do their ‘Stations of the Cross privately on Wednesdays while public celebrations should take place only Fridays especially as it is often followed by Mass.
In the light of this present circumstance, we hereby instruct as follows, till further notice:
a. The shaking of hands during the time for the Sign of Peace during Mass is suspended for the time being.Catholic Church Suspends Sign Of Peace Among Members
b. During this season of Lent, in order to reduce the number of gatherings in Church to the barest necessary, we encourage people to do Stations of the Cross privately on Wednesdays while public celebrations will take place only Fridays especially as it is often followed by Mass.
c. Communion, for the time being, shall be received on the palms
Read also: Coronavirus ?: France Bans Public Gatherings of More Than 5,000 People As Outbreak Soars
d. People are encouraged to have Hand Sanitizers handy to be used as and when needed.
e. The use of Holy Water fonts in churches and public places should be suspended till further notice. May the Lord deliver us from this plague and all evils”, part of the statement reads“, part of the statement.
Catholic Church Suspends Sign Of Peace Among Members
Catholic Secretaiat of Nigeria
Photos Credit: Getty

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