Churches in Pasig diocese open on July 11

After nearly four months, churches in the Diocese of Pasig will finally reopen to the public on July 11, Saturday.

Pasig Bishop Mylo Vergara announced on July 6 the reopening of churches or days after the Inter Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) allowed churches in areas under general community quarantine (GCQ) to hold religious services up to 10 percent capacity of the venue starting July 10.

“With great joy, I am happy to announce to you that we will re-open our churches beginning July 11, Saturday, Memorial of St. Benedict, for the public celebrations of the sacraments and sacramentals,” he said in a letter addressed to the faithful.

“It has been almost four months since March 14 that mass gatherings and public celebrations of sacraments, including the Holy Eucharist, have been suspended in order to curb the spread of COVID-19,” added Vergara.

The prelate, however, reminded the faithful to observe the safety protocols such as the wearing of face masks, saying the virus is still very much around.

The Pasig prelate also asked those below 21 years old, 60 years old and above, those with immunodeficiency, comorbidities or other health risks, and pregnant women to stay home and just follow the live streaming of their Masses.

Meanwhile, Cubao Bishop Honesto Ongtioco said churches in his diocese will not reopen unless clearance has been obtained from the Mayor’s office.

“The Mayor’s office has not received a formal document allowing 10 per cent of occupancy capacity of a church for public worship. We need clearance from the local government for its implementation,” he said in a text message. (Leslie Ann G. Aquino)