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In Catholic churches, starting tomorrow, Thursday, instead of the FFP2 mask obligation, only the obligation to wear a mouth-nose protection (MNS) applies at public services. According to the rules of the Bishops’ Conference published on Wednesday, the mask can be completely omitted outdoors and if the validity of the 3G rule is agreed for celebrations on a one-off occasion such as baptism, first communion or confirmation, reports Kathpress.
Further MNS obligation at church services
At church services, the 3G rule does not apply – hence the obligation to wear the MNS for children over six years in closed church rooms. From tomorrow, the minimum distance of one meter no longer has to be observed, and there are also no longer any restrictions on congregational singing. From July, the holy water basins in the churches may also be filled again. However, disinfectant must still be provided, and a welcome service will receive visitors and point out the rules.
Anyone planning a baptism, wedding or similar event must continue to submit a prevention concept and appoint a prevention officer on a mandatory basis. For choirsingers, the 3G rule generally applies.
If “for the performance of liturgical service” – for example, for priests or lectors – the wearing of the MNS during the celebration is not possible, they are exempt from it for the absolutely necessary period. However, they must then observe safety distances to compensate. For example, the priest will not normally wear a mask from the entrance to communion, since otherwise he would have to constantly put on and take off the MNS.
Confession in the confessional not yet possible
Confession in the confessional room is not yet possible – instead, a “sufficiently large and well-ventilated room” is to be chosen. In this now however only “sufficient distances” must be maintained. Placing a plexiglass screen on a table in the middle can be helpful in this regard, the bishops’ conference said. “Otherwise, the wearing of an MNS is necessary”.
The new framework set by the bishops’ conference allows dioceses to take a regionally autonomous approach. In unison with state regulations, both tightening and easing are possible. The framework regulation applies only to church services. For other church events such as group meetings, the parish cafe or choir rehearsals, the state regulations for the respective type of event apply. With the relaxation of the Corona measures from July 1, the agreement between the churches and religious societies and the Ministry of Culture on public worship services had also expired.
— source: vienna.at/picture: pixabay.com
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