Bishop to parishioners: Avoid handshakes during mass
MANILA, Philippines — The Archdiocese of Caloocan is discouraging parishioners from shaking hands during masses this Lent to avoid the spread of the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
Caloocan Bishop Pablo David said a reverent bow toward one another is enough instead of shaking hands for the sign of peace.
David said an alternative way to ask for a blessing from a priest could also be done by bowing down and saying “pa-bless po.”
“Instead of taking the hand of the priests or of our elders for a blessing, individuals can ask for the blessing verbally and receive it verbally as well like saying ‘God bless you!’” David said yesterday.
He said priests may tap the head of the one asking for a blessing with the back of the hand.
He urged church officials to sprinkle holy water instead of placing a font at the church’s entrance for people to dip their fingers into before making a sign of the cross.
During offertory, the church will provide envelopes marked “Alkansya sa Kuwaresma” for people to put their offerings.
The envelopes can be dropped in collection bags on any Sunday of Lent.
- Latest
- Trending
